UK team close to delivering new COVID-19 test

A team of UK biotech experts say they are close to delivering a "sophisticated and affordable testing technology" that will complement COVID-19 tests already in use.

The technology utilises mass spectrometry to discover proteins unique to COVID-19, and is targeting delivery of test results within 30 minutes that can detect the presence or absence of the virus, measure the viral load, and detect new strains as they emerge.

The joint MAP Sciences and Cantab Health tech could deliver up to 1000 test results per machine over a 24 hour period, the firms note.

According to the developers, the technology could make "a huge contribution" to new plans to boost testing capacity in the UK.

"Our technology delivers results within minutes and with fine tuning we aim to achieve this on COVID-19 but with far fewer false positives (greater specificity)," said Professor Ray Iles, chief scientific officer at MAP Sciences.

"Once developed this technology can provide a powerful and rapid first line in the control of any future new virus epidemics."

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If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early:

Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority.

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