Using a simple swab to collect saliva from just inside the cheek, the new test serves as an easy-to-use alternative to current throat and nose tests, which may result in gagging, sneezing or distress during sample collection

Intelligent

Intelligent Fingerprinting has secured CE mark for saliva-based Covid-19 test. (Credit: Business Wire)

Point-of-care diagnostic solutions provider Intelligent Fingerprinting has secured CE mark approval for its saliva-based Covid-19 test.

The new VSS-GP Covid-19 Saliva Test, which is available for sale, utilises a simple swab for the collection of saliva from just inside the cheek.

Later, it will be mixed with a reagent buffer that is pre-added to the collection tube to help release the virus into the solution.

By inserting the tip of the test strip into the sample, the screening test will be conducted to deliver a positive or negative result within 20 minutes. No instrumentation will be used during the process.

The gold immunonanoparticle technology is used by the test to facilitate the identification of bound antigen through a control line and a red line on the test strip when a saliva sample is positive for the SARS-CoV-2 antigen.

Intelligent Fingerprinting executive chairman Philip Hand said: “Regular Covid-19 testing continues to be part of our everyday lives, so it’s essential that we make the whole process as simple and comfortable as possible.

“Our saliva-based test directly addresses this challenge, combining much simpler sample collection with high levels of accuracy. I’m delighted that our test is now CE marked, and we anticipate strong demand from markets around the world.”

According to the company, the new test serves as an easy-to-use alternative to current throat and nose tests, which may result in gagging, sneezing or distress during sample collection.

Designed to support frequent Covid-19 testing, the new saliva-based lateral flow test can be used in schools, workplaces, care homes, healthcare, airports, sports events, concerts and prisons.

By using minimal plastic, the Intelligent Fingerprinting Covid-19 strip also enables to significantly minimise its environmental impact. It is said to be up to 95% lighter than traditional lateral flow devices.