Roche announced that its cobas SARS-CoV-2 Qualitative test has received CE mark for the use of saliva samples in the detection of SARS-CoV-2 on the widely available, high-throughput cobas® 6800/8800 Systems. This non-invasive test is for any individual, including those suspected of COVID-19 and those without symptoms. Saliva sample collection represents a convenient testing approach for patients, who can easily self-collect their own samples.
“One of the key strategies to reduce COVID-19 transmission is to stop the silent spread of the disease early,” said Cindy Perettie, Head of Molecular Labs, Roche Diagnostics Solutions. “Expanding sensitive testing to include a non-invasive, easy-to-collect sample type such as saliva helps to improve access to screening for more people. This is crucial for public health and keeping our communities safe.”
Due to the non-invasive nature of the test, it is a more tolerable experience for people who require frequent testing, such as those working in a high-risk environment. The test also provides patients with the option to self-collect their saliva sample on site, following the instructions of a healthcare professional. By reducing physical contact, this method of sample collection can help decrease the risk of exposure to the virus for healthcare professionals.
With the addition of saliva to the already available sample types of nasal, nasopharyngeal, and oropharyngeal swabs, Roche provides a broad range of testing options that deliver accurate detection of SARS-CoV-2, even in the presence of the Omicron variant, and can help patients and healthcare providers better manage the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is recently identified in humans.