Validation and implementation of a direct RT-qPCR method for rapid screening of SARS-CoV-2 infection by using non-invasive saliva samples

Objective: To validate and implement an optimised screening method for detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA combining use of self-collected raw saliva samples, single-step heat-treated virus inactivation and RNA extraction, and direct RT-qPCR.Methods: 3-phased study conducted in Barcelona (Spain) in June-October, 2020, including: i) analytical validation against standard RT-qPCR in saliva samples; ii) diagnostic validation against standard RT-qPCR using paired saliva-nasopharyngeal samples obtained from asymptomatic teenagers and adults in a sports academy; and iii) pilot screening of asymptomatic health workers in a tertiary hospital.

Source: International Journal of Infectious Diseases - July 25, 2021 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Pedro Brotons, Amaresh Perez-Arg üello, Cristian Launes, Francesc Torrents, Maria Pilar Subirats, Jesica Saucedo, Joana Claverol, Juan Jose Garcia-Garcia, Gil Rodas, Vicky Fumado, Iolanda Jordan, Eduard Gratacos, Quique Bassat, Carmen Muñoz-Almagro Source Type: research