It's vital to catching COVID-19 cases before they spread. OPINION
Broad access to testing is one of the most powerful tools to keep the COVID-19 pandemic under control until there’s an effective vaccine in use. Diagnostic testing, which is used in medical settings to determine whether someone is infected with the coronavirus, is costly, slow and overstretched in the U.S. But that’s not the only type of test that can be used.
What is screening testing? Ideally, the U.S. could provide frequent, accurate diagnostic testing to the whole population, but diagnostic capacity is struggling to keep up with demand. Screening tests make it possible to test large groups of people frequently, including those without any symptoms. Many fields of public health employ screening test strategies. For example, thermometer-based screening was used during the SARS and Ebola epidemics. Unfortunately, temperature checks miss a lot of COVID-19 cases because an estimated 40% of people with COVID-19 show no symptoms at all. Many COVID-19 reopening plans incorporate temperature checks since they will catch some cases, but a better screening method is needed.
One of the most versatile options for testing is the saliva-based paper-strip test, which only requires a paper strip and a test tube. It could easily be used at home. Finally, those who get a screening test need to know how to interpret the results. Diagnostic tests can tell you whether you’re infected with a high level of certainty. An inexpensive screening test is not as certain, but is still useful. For example, a positive result would mean that you have a high chance of being contagious, in which case you may want to take a diagnostic test for confirmation and quarantine if possible in the meantime.
Those who see the potential of rapid screening tests are already taking action. A group of governors plan to secure rapid tests that have been granted an Emergency Use Authorization without waiting for full FDA approval. This will make it easier for those states to get back to in-person school and work safely.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
NASCAR driver Austin Dillon tests positive for COVID-19, will miss Cup Series race at DaytonaNASCAR driver Austin Dillon will miss Sunday's Cup Series race at the Daytona International Speedway Road Course after testing positive for COVID-19.
Read more »
Cardi B Brought a Bucket and Mop for Her $100,000 Worth of ‘WAP’ COVID-19 Tests'It was kind of weird shooting the video in the age of corona,” Cardi B explained. “Like, we had to spend $100,000 dollars just on testing'
Read more »
NASCAR driver tests positive for Covid-19The coronavirus pandemic has brought countries to a standstill. In many places, as countries reopen, Covid-19 cases are on the rise. Follow here for the latest.
Read more »
Reports: Cincinnati Reds player tests positive for COVID-19Saturday and Sunday games between the Reds and Pirates are now up in the air after a Cincinnati player reportedly tested positive for the coronavirus.
Read more »
9/11 Tribute in Light canceled due to COVID-19The Tribute in Light, a 9/11 commemoration that takes place over Lower Manhattan, has been canceled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Read more »
Live Music in Peril as Congress Leaves for Recess Without Covid-19 Relief BillAs Congress leaves for recess without a Covid-19 relief bill that would've crucially helped live music industry, venue owners, promoters and their employees are in peril
Read more »