Advertisement

UBC launches 13-week COVID-19 test trials

Click to play video: 'UBC studies rapid COVID-19 test for widespread use'
UBC studies rapid COVID-19 test for widespread use
UBC is studying a rapid test for COVID-19, which tests the front of the nose, to determine whether it would be viable for widespread use. Aaron McArthur reports. – May 27, 2021

VANCOUVER – The University of British Columbia has launched a 13-week COVID-19 rapid testing clinic for students and a select group of people living and working on campus.

The university says in a news release that the clinic uses the Roche SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test Kit and it will be studying the viability of self-administered tests.

Click to play video: 'UBC team calls for more widespread use of COVID-19 rapid testing'
UBC team calls for more widespread use of COVID-19 rapid testing

It says participants can take their own swab from the front of the nose, but a nurse will take also a sample from the upper part of the throat, as is currently done, to make sure the new test is accurate.

Story continues below advertisement

It says appointments take about 30 minutes and results are ready in about 15.

The university says participants must be asymptomatic and over the age of 16, and while those vaccinated can get tested, they can’t take part in the research aspect of the clinic.

Click to play video: 'YVR study suggests rapid testing contributes to safer travel'
YVR study suggests rapid testing contributes to safer travel

The rapid antigen test kit is currently under review by Health Canada.

“If this self-swab proves to be effective, it has the potential to be used in a number of settings and by the public across the country,” says lead researcher Sabrina Wong.

Sponsored content

AdChoices