Answer to Question #243419 in Microbiology for lole

Question

Write an essay writing.

Topic: The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided Emergency Use Authorization for a small number of Antigen (Ag)-based Rapid Diagnostic Tests (AgRDTs) to be used in specific circumstances for the diagnosis of COVID-19 infection. Using ONE example, explain how such a test works. Discuss its advantages and disadvantages.

Answer 1

A new technology for COVID-19 detection has become available that is much simpler and faster to perform than currently-recommended nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT), like PCR. This method relies on direct detection of SARS-CoV-2 viral proteins in nasal swabs and other respiratory secretions using a lateral flow immunoassay (also called an RDT) that gives results in < 30 minutes. Though these antigen detection RDTs (Ag-RDTs) are substantially less sensitive than NAAT, they offer the possibility of rapid, inexpensive and early detection of the most infectious COVID-19 cases in appropriate settings. Acknowledging the inadequacy of current data on the performance and operational utility of these tests, this document seeks to provide guidance to countries on considerations for integration into COVID-19 outbreak management programs.