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Abstract

Early and rapid detection remains vital to slow the community spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Reverse-Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) is currently the diagnostic reference standard for the diagnosis of COVID-19. However, expensive and specialized laboratory instruments and clinical expertise are required to conduct RT-PCR assays. Moreover, many countries around the world have experienced supply shortages of reagents, long turnaround times and other challenges. To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the All Test SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Rapid Test (Nasal Swab), a total of 100 positive samples were subject to antigen and PCR tests. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the antigen test were 91.0%, 100% and 95.5% respectively. Rapid antigen tests offer results more rapidly (15-20 minutes) and at a lower cost than RT-PCR. These tests are well suited for Point-Of-Care Testing (POCT), as they can easily be performed and interpreted without equipment, are inexpensive, and improve turnaround times.

Keywords: COVID-19; Rapid antigen tests; Nucleocapsid protein