Newer COVID-19 Omicron subvariants such as BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.3, and BA.5 are now covered by InteliSwab rapid tests, according to their maker, OraSure Technologies. Studies evaluating these tests for Omicron sub-lineage detection conducted at an independent third-party laboratory showed that they spotted the variants at viral load levels commensurate with previous dominant variants.
“The COVID-19 pandemic remains highly dynamic, with new variants of the disease emerging frequently,” said the company’s President, Lisa Nibauer. “OraSure is committed to ensuring our science remains robust as we continue to see rapid evolution of the virus over time. InteliSwab has performed remarkably well against all new variants of the COVID-19 virus to date, and we will continue to work to ensure that consumers can rely on the accuracy of our test.” Developed to produce results in an estimated 30-minute window of time, the rapid test kit is similar to others on the market in that it contains a test stick for nostril swabbing as well as a pre-measured solution into which an individual can mix their swab.
The InteliSwab has earned a number of agency approvals, including Emergency Use and Over-the-Counter use without prescription authorizations from the FDA. Additionally, the FDA has given the tests the green light for professional use in point-of-care (POC) clinical laboratory improvement amendments (CLIA)-waived settings. As of earlier this year, they’ve also been approved for use in children ages two to 14.
