Volta

Antigen and molecular testing using one swab: Lessons learned from a COVID-19 project

• One swab used for both rapid antigen and RT-PCR testing improves efficiency. • Reflex RT-PCR testing of RAT swabs significantly increases SARS-CoV-2 detection. • RAT followed by PCR on the same swab showed 99.0 % concordance with standard PCR. • CT values from PCR tested RAT swabs are 2-5 cycles higher than direct PCR testing. • One-swab-two-test strategy reduces patient discomfort and resource burden. Rapid SARS-CoV-2 detection is essential in limiting transmission. We evaluated the performance of RT-PCR on the same nasopharyngeal swab used for Panbio antigen testing. High concordance with standard PCR and improved case detection—including asymptomatic infections—demonstrates this one-swab-two-test strategy enhances diagnostic yield while reducing patient discomfort and resource burden.

Reference & gravity metrics

Secondary-market trade history

References (0)

Cited by (1)