Cloud-Based Software Update Reduces PCR Covid-19 Test Time for Bosch's Vivalytic System to Under 30 Minutes - eeNews Europe 📦

7    27 Dec 2020 15:40 by u/Dacquoise

6 comments

1 u/None 27 Dec 2020 16:09
But does it increase accuracy of PCR testing for covid? If it doesn't (hint it doesn't) then this is worthless
2 u/Dacquoise [OP] 27 Dec 2020 16:45
PCR is incredibly accurate **if** done right. The accuracy essentially depends on whether the technique of obtaining the sample using the swab is done properly, doing it improperly can also be quite easy if testing staff aren't trained properly which is a problem. The testing time in this system being 30 minutes is notable as the time for a lot of the RT-PCR tests consist of many hours not even factoring in the transit time for getting that sample to a laboratory. Having a quick turnaround is important as the patient can be notified much quicker, so that if they test positive they can go into quarantine much quicker minimising spread, or for the patient that tests negative they can get out of isolation much quicker during the waiting time for the test. So instead of waiting 24-48 hours, with this people will be able to know only within a few hours which is awesome :)
2 u/None 27 Dec 2020 17:01
It may be but not for covid testing. PCR covid testing has at least a 25% false positive rate
1 u/Dacquoise [OP] 27 Dec 2020 17:29
The issue is there hasn't really been a proper study in terms of a false positive or false negative rate of the PCR test, but must reports suggest it is highly accurate. I have heard there have been false positives and false negatives with the PCR and do not deny it, but it is quite rare. The same cannot be said with the antigen tests at the moment where reports are suggesting that there are issues with them right now - the Innova Antigen Rapid Qualitative Test comes to mind. If you can tell me of where you found that number though I'd be interested to research it myself. Happy to agree to disagree however :)
2 u/None 27 Dec 2020 17:42
If I can find it again I will post it. From an anecdotal view I will relay this. Doctors in my area are recommending multiple tests to first confirm the covid diagnosis and for the all clear because of the false positives of the PCR. And I live and consult in an area that has been leading the charge in developing faster, more accurate testing as well as the number of tests administered.
1 u/Dacquoise [OP] 27 Dec 2020 18:02
I definitely think conducting secondary tests can be worthwhile given that it seems right now no test can be 100% accurate. Good to hear about what's happening in your area! I hope those innovations will be fruitful.