Low-Cost, Rapid Nasal Swab Test Gets Emergency OK From FDA
It's the first such quick test to get FDA authorization that does not require specialty lab equipment like traditional tests. Abbot Laboratories will sell the 15-minute test for $5.
AP:
Rapid $5 Coronavirus Test Doesn't Need Specialty Equipment
The Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday authorized the first rapid coronavirus test that doesn’t need any special computer equipment to get results. The 15-minute test from Abbott Laboratories will sell for $5, giving it a competitive edge over similar tests that need to be popped into a small machine. The size of a credit card, the self-contained test is based on the same technology used to test for the flu, strep throat and other infections. (Perrone, 8/27)
Politico:
FDA Gives Go-Ahead To Fast $5 Coronavirus Test That Doesn't Require Lab Equipment
Abbott's test is designed for use within seven days of the onset of symptoms. It gives results on a card reminiscent of the stick used in many over-the-counter pregnancy tests. If one line appears on the card, the patient is negative for the coronavirus; two lines indicates a positive result. Health care providers still must administer the test but it can be done in point-of-care settings like offices. (Lim, 8/26)
The Wall Street Journal:
Abbott’s $5 Covid-19 Rapid Antigen Test Gets Emergency-Use Status From FDA
Some public-health officials and lab executives say lower-cost rapid tests that can be produced at scale are an important factor in the country’s ability to return to work and school. Abbott’s new test, called the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card, searches for virus proteins and is intended to be used for patients within seven days of feeling coronavirus symptoms. It involves a nasal swab administered by a health-care professional such as a doctor, school nurse or pharmacist. The swab is inserted into the card-like test. (Krouse, 8/26)
Reuters:
Abbott Wins U.S. Authorization For $5 Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Test
The portable test is about the size of a credit card, requires no additional equipment to operate, and can be conducted using a less invasive nasal swab than traditional lab tests, Abbott executives said on a call with reporters. Abbott expects to ship tens of millions of tests in September, ramping to 50 million tests a month from the beginning of October. (O'Donnell and Roy, 8/26)
