The innovative self-collected PCR test replaces the traditional and uncomfortable nasopharyngeal swab. This saliva PCR test is proving to be highly useful in screening patients who show no apparent symptoms and is even being used for regular monitoring.

WHAT IS THE SALIVA PCR TEST?

The saliva PCR test, also known as a self-collection test, uses a person's own saliva to obtain the sample, as its name suggests. It detects the presence of the virus's RNA (genetic material) in these saliva samples.

This method replaces the traditional and uncomfortable nasopharyngeal PCR test, which is performed using a swab. Results are also available within 48 working hours after the sample is collected and, in the same way, indicate whether COVID-19 is present at the time the test was carried out.

WHAT DOES THE SALIVA PCR TEST INVOLVE?

The saliva PCR test consists of depositing a 1 ml saliva sample into a tube through self-collection, filling at least one third of the container. After this, the tube only needs to be closed and sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Once at the laboratory, reagents are used to analyse the sample and detect the presence of COVID-19 RNA molecules.

Suitable for everyone

This self-collection test is suitable for anyone, but it is especially beneficial for people who find the nasopharyngeal swab PCR test uncomfortable.

Some of the groups that may benefit the most include:

• People for whom a nasopharyngeal PCR test is difficult to perform, such as paediatric patients.

• People with special conditions.

• Elderly people.

• Children.

This test eliminates the discomfort associated with nasopharyngeal sampling while maintaining high sensitivity in the results. Collecting a saliva sample is as simple as downloading the instructions provided here.

ADVANTAGES OF THE SALIVA PCR TEST

PCR testing is here to stay and is being increasingly used due to all the advantages it offers:

• The main advantage is the ease and comfort of collecting the sample, as a saliva PCR test is much less invasive.

• Another key aspect is that this saliva PCR test is valid for all COVID-19 variants identified to date, including the UK variant, the South African variant, and the Brazilian variant.

• The results have the same reliability as nasopharyngeal PCR tests and offer high sensitivity, with results available in approximately 48 hours.

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