This week, UMC Utrecht started validating a new, rapid test to determine a COVID-19 infection. The new antigen test detects a viral protein and can demonstrate in 15 minutes whether the virus is present. The PCR test, which is currently most commonly used in the Netherlands, looks at the genetic material of the virus and is very sensitive but takes much longer, namely five hours.
It is not yet known exactly how sensitive the antigen test is and in which period after infection this new test gives the most reliable result. That is why, in the coming weeks, a large number of people will be tested on the GGD test location at UMC Utrecht with the current PCR test and with the rapid antigen test. By comparing the data, a picture will soon be created of how, when and for whom the test can best be used. Rapid antigen tests from various manufacturers will be tested in several hospitals in the near future. All data is subsequently shared with RIVM to make a quick decision about reliability and use.
GGD region Utrecht is happy to participate in the trial in our test street at the UMC Utrecht. About 50 percent of the people who are tested want to participate in the rapid test. UMC Utrecht hopes that this test can be implemented on a large scale in the short term, so that as many people as possible with complaints can be tested. Especially now that the percentage of infections is rising sharply in this region.
