Researchers develop highly accurate 30-second COVID-19 test

Editor's Note

Researchers at the University of Florida (UF) have helped develop a testing device that can detect COVID-19 infection within 30 seconds, with the sensitivity and accuracy of a PCR test.

The hand-held device is powered by a 9-volt battery and uses test strips similar to those used in blood glucose meters. The strip is placed on the tongue to collect a tiny saliva sample and then inserted into a reader connected to a circuit board. The device also has the ability to quantify viral and antibody loads.

Working with scientists at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan, the UF researchers have entered into a licensing agreement with New Jersey-based Houndstoothe Analytics to manufacture and sell the device once it is approved by the Food and Drug Administration.