Pharmaceutical companies developed, WHO approved: Soon a rapid test for Covid-19 'for the rich and the poor'

(Patria) – Rapid tests for Covid-19 that show results in just 15-30 minutes will soon be globally distributed, which could save thousands of lives and slow down the pandemic in both developed and underdeveloped parts of the world.

The tests, which resemble pregnancy tests with two blue lines for a positive result, have already been approved by the World Health Organization.

Around 120 million rapid tests, to be produced by two pharmaceutical companies, will be provided to underdeveloped and developing countries at a price of $5 per unit.

Rapid but quality tests will enable mass testing of healthcare workers, who are dying in large numbers from the consequences of coronavirus infection, especially in underdeveloped parts of the world.

In addition to healthcare facilities, rapid antigen tests will prove particularly useful in schools, universities, and workplaces. Although this type of testing will not be able to locate all infected individuals, it will still enable a large number of infected people to be identified and isolated before they develop symptoms. One of these tests, developed by the South Korean company SD Bio Sensor, has just been approved by the WHO, while another company, the American Abbott, is awaiting approval for a test also manufactured in South Korea.

The WHO has welcomed the rapid test and considers it an effective solution, especially for poorer countries.

The pharmaceutical companies that developed the tests claim they are up to 97% accurate, but under optimal conditions. In reality, accuracy could be somewhat compromised, but it will still range from 80 to 90%.