Coronavirus – Evaluation of the use of saliva samples as an alternative to sampling via a deep nasal swab to detect SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19
Source: FAMHP
August 19, 2020
Because of the benefits to both patients and healthcare professionals, a study on the use of saliva samples as an alternative to sampling via a deep nasal swab (nasopharyngeal) to detect SARS-CoV-2 using molecular detection tests (PCR) was launched on 28 May 2020.
Study
This study was commissioned by the federal task force "testing & shortages" and approved by the Medical Ethics Commission of the UZ Leuven. Several partners of the national testing platform participated in this study: the national reference center for respiratory pathogens, companies, universities, and the Belgian military. The study was supported by Sciensano and the FAMHP.