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<ul><li>Genes2Me has developed a <keyword id="14558146" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="RTPCR-testing-kit" source="Orion">RTPCR testing kit</keyword> to detect <keyword id="7616951" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="monkeypox" source="Orion">Monkeypox</keyword> virus.</li><li>The test kit can provide the results in just 50 minutes.</li><li>It is one of the first Indian companies to roll out this product and it is available for research-use only and based on Gold standard Taqman chemistry based RT PCR method.</li></ul>Gurugram-based <keyword id="14558147" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="In-Vetro-Diagnostics" source="Orion">In Vetro Diagnostics</keyword> (IVD) manufacturers announced that they have developed a RTPCR testing kit to detect Monkeypox virus which can provide results in just 50 minutes. This kit is available in both the standard version for any commonly available RT PCR instruments as well as Point-of-Care (PoC) format. The PoC solution can be used for screening at multiple sites including hospitals, airports, diagnostic labs and health camps. “Scientists from Genes2Me have been able to develop POX-Q Multiplexed RT-PCR kit for the detection of Monkeypox virus along with differentiation from Varicella Zoster Virus (Chicken Pox) in a single tube multiplex reaction format,” says the company in a statement. It is one of the first Indian companies to roll out this product and it is available for research-use only and based on Gold standard Taqman chemistry based RT PCR method. “This unprecedented time underscores the importance of diagnostic assays in health security preparedness and readiness. We wanted to be prepared ahead of time for this virus,” said Neeraj Gupta, CEO and founder of Genes2Me. For detection of the Monkeypox virus, both dry swabs and swabs placed in VTM can be used.The company also claims to be the first ones to introduce RT-Direct as first made-in-India COVID-19 extraction free RT-PCR Kit. He added, “ We have the capacity to manufacture 5 million test kits in a week. However, it can be scaled up to 2 million tests in a day with the added demand.” In the backdrop, the makers of TrueNat real-time polymerase chain reaction, which is the only PoC platform used by the <keyword id="43588" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="world-health-organization" source="Orion">World Health Organization</keyword> (WHO) to detect tuberculosis, is also developing the test kit for monkeypox, indicated government sources. Trivitron Healthcare, a Chennai-based medical devices company, also developed a real-time RT-PCR-based kit for the detection of the monkeypox virus. The company says that its test kit can differentiate between smallpox and monkeypox in a one-tube single reaction format. Last week, the WHO declared Monkeypox as a ‘public health emergency of international concern’. Globally, more than 16,000 cases of the Monkeypox virus have been reported over the last seven months in around 68 countries, out of which five people succumbed to the virus. India has reported over four cases so far, three have been detected in Kerala and one in the national capital. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/as-zomato-shares-crash-for-the-second-day-jefferies-plans-to-buy-stock-for-long-term-investors/articleshow/93128894.cms">As Zomato shares crash for the second day, Jefferies plans to buy stock for long-term investors</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/international/news/over-14-million-children-in-the-us-test-positive-for-covid-19/articleshow/93126905.cms">Over 14 million children in the US test positive for Covid-19</a>

Indian company rolls out RT PCR test kit for Monkeypox

<ul><li>A new COVID-19 testing is being developed to help people easily get results and without spending too much.</li><li>The smaRT-LAMP testing system uses basic lab equipment and a smartphone app.</li><li>It’s said to produce accurate results and even detect new COVID variants.</li></ul>Researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara have developed a new<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/health/news/harmony-covid-19-test-claims-to-deliver-results-in-less-than-20-minutes-and-with-97-accuracy/articleshow/89107312.cms"> COVID-19 testing system</a> that uses basic lab equipment and a smartphone app, and it is claimed to give results as accurate as of the standard PCR test. This COVID testing system is called “smaRT-LAMP” and it could be as cheap as $7. The COVID testing requires a smartphone, an app called “Bacticount” and a test kit, according to a <a href="https://gizmodo.com/researchers-develop-cheap-covid-test-for-smartphones-1848443324">report</a> by Gizmodo. It requires a person’s saliva that is placed on the test kit and a reactive solution is added to it so that it can detect any viral RNA that could be present in the saliva sample. The sample is then covered with a cardboard box that has an LED light on top. The smartphone’s camera is then pointed at the LED lights and according to the colour reactions, it will be revealed if the sample being tested is <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/covid-19-india-reports-over-200000-new-cases-and-959-fatalities-in-last-24-hours/articleshow/89236700.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">COVID-19 </a>positive or not. If it’s a bright red light then the result is positive. One drawback of this COVID-19 test is that the Baticount app is currently compatible only with the Samsung Galaxy S9 series which is already four years old. Further development could add support for more smartphones otherwise the testing method won’t be convenient at all. The research is still very early though and it was conducted with samples of 50 people. The team is however confident that the results are promising, and smaRT-LAMP could help identify new COVID variants or even the flu. The COVID-19 testing kit is aimed at helping rural hospitals or places where there isn’t a proper testing system. It is also expected to be available as home testing kits. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/covid-19-india-reports-over-200000-new-cases-and-959-fatalities-in-last-24-hours/articleshow/89236700.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">COVID-19: India reports over 2,00,000 new cases and 959 fatalities in last 24 hours</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/entertainment/news/spotify-ceo-daniel-ek-announces-content-advisory-for-podcast-episodes-discussing-covid-19/articleshow/89233355.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">Spotify CEO Daniel Ek announces content advisory for podcast episodes discussing COVID-19</a>

Researchers develop a new smartphone-based COVID-19 testing kit that is said to match PCR test accuracy

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Mandi Pitzer, 37, went off birth control soon after she got married in 2014.</li><li>She tried tracking her cycle and scheduling sex, but still wasn't pregnant after three years.</li></ul>This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Mandi Pitzer. It has been edited for length and clarity.Before we got married, my husband Andrew and I were super careful about not getting pregnant. In the two years we were dating, I was on Depo-Provera, the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-birth-control-should-i-take-2018-2">birth control shot</a>, and tracked my cycles using an app. We also used the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/health/reproductive-health/how-effective-is-birth-control-without-pulling-out">pull-out method</a>.Once we had rings on our fingers we threw caution to the wind. Our friends were all <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-z-have-kids-despite-climate-change-anxiety-2023-12">having babies</a> and it felt like the next step. Although we weren't yet actively trying to conceive, we thought I'd get pregnant quickly when we removed the precautions.That wasn't the case. For the first few years, Andrew and I went about our lives as usual. We tried to make the most of baby-free time to travel and enjoy the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/dna-genes-predict-satisfaction-first-years-of-marriage-2021-3">early years of marriage</a>. But as the months added up, I started to worry.Most healthy couples get pregnant within six months of having unprotected sex, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The organization <a target="_blank" href="https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/trying-to-get-pregnant-heres-when-to-have-sex">advises</a> people under 35 to speak with their doctor if they've been trying to conceive for more than a year. Yet when I mentioned our lack of conception to my doctor, she wasn't concerned. I figured we had time.<h2>I started researching assisted reproduction</h2>After two years of not trying and not preventing, we got serious about having a baby when I was 32. We started intentionally having sex around the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/health/best-ovulation-tracker">time I was ovulating</a>. Scheduling sex took away some of the fun and intimacy, but it felt like something we had to do.Yet, as we approached our third anniversary, I still wasn't pregnant.I started to research assisted reproduction. Intrauterine insemination (IUI), a medical procedure where a doctor inserts sperm directly into the uterus, is a first step for many couples who can't conceive the old fashioned way.IUIs result in pregnancy about <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9519724/">11% of the time</a>. From what I read, when that doesn't work, patients often move on to in vitro fertilization (IVF), where an egg is fertilized in a lab, and then inserted into the body. IVF rates vary widely depending on the age and health of the parents: based on my age, our chances would have been about <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562266/">47% each cycle</a>.Both of these <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/lesbian-couples-parenthood-added-costs-and-stress-2023-6">procedures are expensive</a>, especially if you lack health insurance.IUIs can cost up to $1,000 per cycle without insurance, while IVF can cost as much as $15,000 per cycle. We had insurance, but we knew even with coverage, assisted reproduction would likely cost us thousands of dollars.In addition to that huge cost, I had just watched my best friend go through fertility treatments and an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/orthodox-jewish-woman-infertility-iui-pregnancy-secret-2023-5">IUI cycle</a>. The amount of blood work, invasive testing, and medical appointments she needed seemed overwhelming to me. I was already processing three years of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/trying-to-get-pregnant-for-10-months-2021-12">stress of trying to get pregnant</a>.<h2>A home insemination kit worked on the first try</h2>Then, I found something interesting in my research — <a target="_blank" href="https://mosiebaby.com/">Mosie Baby</a>, a home insemination kit. At the time, I went with the first option that popped up on Google. Today, there are <a target="_blank" href="https://www.pherdal.com/">other companies</a> offering kits like this too. The Mosie kit cost about $99 when I first used it, so it's a fraction of the cost of an IUI. Unlike IUIs, which put sperm into the uterus, intravaginal insemination kits deposit sperm near the cervix, the entrance to the uterus. Research on these kits is limited, but shows they can result in pregnancy<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7491664/"> 25% to 70% of the time</a>.I sent Andrew a link to the kit and he replied quickly: order it. I was ovulating that weekend, so I overnighted a kit to our home.Even though we'd been having sex for years, using the kit made us a bit shy. Andrew collected his sperm sample in another room. Then, he brought it into our bedroom, where I used the inseminator while lying in bed. It felt just like <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/health/reproductive-health/how-to-put-a-tampon-in">inserting a tampon</a> and being at home was much more comfortable than being in a doctor's office. The kit came with two syringes, so we used the second the next day. Then, we started to wait.On the first day I was able to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/health/reproductive-health/when-to-take-a-pregnancy-test">take a pregnancy test</a> I woke up very early. I peed on the stick and watched it the whole time. When the second pink line emerged, I couldn't believe it. I woke Andrew up at 5 a.m. and he sent a picture to his mom. Nine months later, we brought our daughter Everly home on Christmas day — a long-awaited present for us and our families.<h2>Two years later, we used the kit to conceive our second child</h2>We never used birth control after having Everly, who is now 5. And yet, after another two years we weren't pregnant. So, we ordered another kit. Mosie worked, again. Our second daughter Olivia is almost two, and our family is complete.Trying to build a family was very stressful. I didn't want to feel like another number in the doctor's office. Being able to conceive our daughters in our bed — just with a little extra help — felt right for us.Andrew and I are very private, but I've started sharing our conception journey because I think it's so important that people know about this option.My moms — who have been together for more than 20 years — tell lots of their LGBTQ+ friends about how their granddaughters were conceived. In another timeline, this technology <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/lesbian-couple-used-social-media-to-find-private-sperm-donor-2021-1">could have helped them</a>. It can also impact people who don't have access to doctors or money to spend on fertility treatments.Today we love taking Everly and Olivia to the park or going bowling with them. We've learned there's so much joy in those everyday moments.

After trying for years, I got pregnant twice for less than $300 with an at-home, artificial insemination kit

<ul><li>A new cheap and fast COVID-19 test is being developed by researchers at the University of Washington.</li><li>Called ‘Harmony’ this test combines the accuracy and speed of the current PCR tests.</li><li>The team behind Harmony plans to make this COVID-19 test easily accessible globally and at an affordable price.</li></ul>Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a fast and cheap<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/around-50-of-covid-19-infected-may-have-lasting-loss-of-smell-says-study/articleshow/89088784.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink"> COVID-19</a> test that can provide results in less than 20 minutes. The ‘Harmony’ test combines the speed of the Rapid Antigen test and the accuracy of the RT-PCR test that are currently used to detect if a person has COVID-19 or not. This new test works like the current ones wherein it detects genetic material from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. But it assures not only speed but accuracy as well. The team behind the Harmony test is led by Barry Lutz, a <a href="https://www.washington.edu/news/2022/01/24/harmony-covid19/" data-type="tilCustomLink">UW</a> associate professor of bioengineering and investigator with the Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Here’s how it works" comment="subhead" text="Here’s how it works">Here’s how it works</cmsannotation> The Harmony COVID-19 test has been designed to be simple and easy-to-use. Similar to the PCR methods, you take a nasal swab sample with a small, and low-cost detector. The results will then appear on a smartphone which is used to operate the detector. This detector can be used to test up to four samples at a time. This test detects three regions of the virus’ genome, and it’s even claimed to detect two mutations of the virus. The Harmony kit is also said to have 97 per cent accuracy for nasal swabs. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="How it’s different from current tests" comment="subhead" text="How it’s different from current tests">How it’s different from current tests</cmsannotation> According to Lutz, this test uses a PCR-like method known as RT-LAMP that lets the test operate at a constant temperature without the need to heat and cool. The current PCR method goes through cycles of heating and cooling to detect the virus’ genetic material which takes some time. But the Harmony test saves time and delivers results faster while using a similar method. Lutz along with two colleagues from the UW founded a new company called Anavasi Diagnostics to develop the Harmony COVID-19 tests. The company received funding of $300,000 from WE-REACH which is the Center for Washington Entrepreneurial Research Evaluation &amp; Commercialization Hub. It also received $14.9 million in grants from the National Institutes of Health for large scale manufacturing of the test. The Harmony COVID-19 test will be available in clinics first along with workplaces and schools. Lutz also plans to later make the test available for home use, and accessible globally at an affordable price. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/news/scientists-are-closely-watching-an-omicron-subtype-spreading-in-denmark-the-uk-singapore-and-india/articleshow/89099005.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">Scientists are closely watching an Omicron subtype spreading in Denmark, the UK, Singapore and India</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/news/heres-how-long-people-with-covid-19-may-remain-contagious-according-to-the-best-available-data/articleshow/89057908.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">Here's how long people with COVID-19 may remain contagious, according to the best available data</a>

Researchers have developed a cheaper COVID-19 test that claims to deliver results in less than 20 minutes

<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="11893181" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="amazon" source="Orion">Amazon</keyword> is limiting the purchase of at-home <keyword id="8764262" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="covid" source="Orion">COVID</keyword> <keyword id="6361808" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="pcr" source="Orion">PCR</keyword> tests to 10 kits per shopper.</li><li>The company is responding to a run on kits as the <keyword id="12616996" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="omicron" source="Orion">Omicron</keyword> variant continues to spread.</li></ul>Amazon is limiting the sale of its $40 at-home COVID PCR testing kits to 10 per customer.The quota is a response to increased demand as the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/category/omicron">fast-spreading Omicron variant</a> surges across the country, a spokesperson <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2021/12/22/covid-tests-amazon-limits-number-of-tests-you-can-buy.html">told CNBC</a> on Wednesday. The at-home kits have become increasingly popular for Americans looking to ensure their health status ahead of holiday travel, while dodging the lengthy lines that have once again sprung up at testing sites around the country. While the spokesperson said Amazon is currently working to secure more availability from its selling partners, other vendors on the <keyword id="11894549" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="e-commerce" source="Orion">e-commerce</keyword> marketplace are also setting limits, including the #1 best-selling <a href="https://www.amazon.com/iHealth-COVID-19-Authorized-Non-invasive-Discomfort/dp/B09KZ6TBNY/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_sspa?crid=3U0GL2E0WCY9S&amp;&amp;keywords=covid+test&amp;&amp;qid=1640181382&amp;&amp;sprefix=covid+test%2Caps%2C76&amp;&amp;sr=8-2-spons&amp;&amp;psc=1&amp;&amp;smid=A3CR6COA8J61N&amp;&amp;spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyWUVIQ0hZQkpaSzhPJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMDkxOTYzTEgwVjhNVkVUTEg4JmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAxMDgyMzMzT1AwSFBCRUFKWldQJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfcGhvbmVfc2VhcmNoX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=">iHealth Labs Antigen Rapid Test</a>, which is now limited to five per person and won't be delivered until after January 1.Third-party sellers like iHealth Labs are responsible for setting their own purchase limits, Amazon told CNBC.The online <keyword id="11893588" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="retail" source="Orion">retail</keyword> giant is the latest retailer to ration its supply of COVID tests, following <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2021/12/21/omicron-home-tests-walgreens-cvs/">Walgreens and CVS Health</a>, which also set limits this week on purchases of their own testing kits, both in-store and online. On Tuesday, President Biden announced a plan to <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/biden-admin-free-covid-test-kits-psaki-recently-dismissed-idea-2021-12">provide 500 million free at-home test kits to Americans</a> in January, an effort to make COVID tests more accessible amid test kit shortages. Biden also reiterated the importance of vaccinations and boosters to fight the onslaught of the Omicron and Delta variants. Meanwhile, the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/who-director-recommends-canceling-postponing-holiday-events-coronavirus-surge-2021-12">World Health Organization</a> recommended canceling or postponing holiday plans this year in response to rising Omicron cases.Amazon was not immediately available to respond to Insider's request for comment about the COVID test shortage.

Amazon is capping the number of at-home COVID tests shoppers can purchase as Omicron surge prompts shortages

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Because of the way the <keyword id="12616996" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="omicron" source="Orion">Omicron</keyword> variant has mutated, some <keyword id="6361808" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="pcr" source="Orion">PCR</keyword> lab tests can provide a good hint that it's around.</li><li>The clue is not definitive, but it can help scientists determine which tests to sequence, saving time.</li></ul>In the days and weeks <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-southern-africa-detected-omicron-variant-so-quickly-2021-11">before scientists in South Africa and Botswana found Omicron</a> in early November, laboratory workers there started noticing something strange about many of the PCR lab tests being done to detect COVID-19.Something was missing. One of the genes their tests typically targeted to find out whether a person had the virus was not present. The <keyword id="11893194" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="coronavirus" source="Orion">coronavirus</keyword>'s "S" gene was dropping out.This didn't lead to any false negative tests, because there are two other gene targets that were still successfully <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-coronavirus-throat-tests-work-rt-pcr-method-explained-2020-4">lighting up</a>. Still, scientists started to suspect maybe something strange was afoot."All of a sudden, this S gene fallout was just in basically every single sample," Vicky Baillie, a senior scientist at Wits Vaccines &amp; Infectious Diseases Analytics Research Unit in South Africa, told Insider. "We then did the sequencing, and that's when we found this new variant."It turns out that one of the standard laboratory tests that many scientists around the world use to screen for the coronavirus can provide an early hint that Omicron is around.Knowing this gives disease-watchers worldwide a head-start, helping them decide which samples to put through the costly and time-consuming genetic sequencing process to confirm the new variant has arrived. <h2>How one brand of PCR test detected Omicron</h2>The fact that the S gene was missing from many South African lab tests wasn't a definitive sign that Omicron was there, but it was a kind of accidental early alert system. It was detected through <a href="https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/clinical/clinical-genomics/pathogen-detection-solutions/covid-19-sars-cov-2/multiplex.html">one of the common brands</a> of PCR lab tests: the ThermoFischer TaqPath COVID-19 combo kit. <a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-emergency-use-authorizations-medical-devices/in-vitro-diagnostics-euas-molecular-diagnostic-tests-sars-cov-2">Other PCR brands</a> have tests that work in <a href="https://www.zymoresearch.com/blogs/blog/what-makes-a-good-covid-19-rt-pcr-test">a very similar way</a>, but they may <a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/136046/download">target different gene</a> combinations that are more well-preserved with the new variant. No authorized coronavirus test, so far, has been deemed unusable for Omicron, according to the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-actively-working-investigate-address-potential-impacts-omicron">US Food and Drug Administration</a>."We believe high-volume polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and antigen (rapid) tests widely used in the US show low likelihood of being impacted and continue to work," the FDA said in <a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-actively-working-investigate-address-potential-impacts-omicron">a statement Tuesday</a>.But not all PCR tests can sound the alarm about Omicron, because "it's not what their job is," Scott Becker, CEO of the Association of <keyword id="6364896" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="public-health" source="Orion">Public Health</keyword> Laboratories in the US, said on Tuesday during a media briefing. PCR tests are designed to diagnose any and all COVID-19, not to tell people exactly which variant they have. Still, PCR is faster, cheaper, and easier than whole genome sequencing, making it a potentially great tool for large scale variant screening. It's a shortcut that can, in turn, improve how nimbly policymakers, pharmaceutical companies, and scientists respond to new disease threats. <h2>US labs are racing to stock up on the same PCR test used in South Africa</h2>ThermoFischer's test is such a useful tool for hunting down this variant that the bulk of public health labs all across the US are all racing to use it "for the next two weeks, just to have this heightened screening while we look for <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/omicron-the-us-probably-has-2000-cases-already-covid-expert-2021-11">Omicron in the US,</a>" Kelly Wroblewski, the director of infectious diseases for the APHL said during the briefing. Of the 68 public health labs in the country, 56 are capable of using this specific test. This will be "really really helpful" for US Omicron surveillance, Wroblewski said.Because it takes roughly 24 to 48 hours to sequence a coronavirus sample after testing it, having an earlier indication of which tests might potentially be Omicron positive is a nice perk. But it's definitely not a perfect shortcut. At least not yet."This is a fairly common mutation," Wroblewski added, explaining why these PCR tests on their own can't be used as "a definitive tool."The same kind of S gene dropout happened previously with the B.1.1.7 variant, aka Alpha, and it has with other, less significant coronavirus variants too."It just helps guide you that you might have something of interest that you want to interrogate a bit further," Wroblewski said. <div type="image" title="a man using a pipette to genetic sequence a coronavirus sample" height="1400" width="2100" msid="88038202" hostid="261"></div><h2>Scientists can build more specific PCR tests — and they could be ready in 6 weeks</h2>Dr. Charity Dean, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/omicron-the-us-probably-has-2000-cases-already-covid-expert-2021-11">a former top public health official</a> in California who was one of the first people sounding the COVID-19 alarm to the White House, calls the S gene dropout "an early signal of where we think Omicron is in the world.""But really, you need to do whole genome sequencing to confirm that, and that capability is limited just because of the cost and the investment it takes for a lab to do it," said Dean, whose new venture, The <a href="https://www.thepublichealthco.com/">Public Health Company,</a> runs a genetic sequencing lab to improve disease surveillance in the US. "It's not something they can just stand up overnight."Though the PCR tests we have today can't definitively screen for Omicron, Dean said it's possible that because of the vast array of new mutations that Omicron exhibits, new tests could be designed to do that very soon."You can actually build a PCR test to target a specific variant," Dean said. "I would anticipate we'll have that for Omicron, probably in six weeks."Until then, other countries can benefit from the same lucky break that South Africa did, by combining S gene-targeted PCR testing with top-notch sequencing work, to more quickly figure out if this variant is at hand. "In comparison to a lot of other African countries, and even to a lot of first world countries, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-southern-africa-detected-omicron-variant-so-quickly-2021-11">we do sequence a lot</a>," Baillie said. "I think it also came down to the [PCR] assay that we happened to be using."

One nerdy piece of good news about Omicron: We already have tests that spot signs of the variant

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Applied DNA Sciences stock jumped over 400% on Tuesday after the company gave an update on a monkeypox PCR test.</li><li>The firm will begin validation of the test, after which it can seek approval from regulators for public testing.</li></ul>Applied DNA Sciences stock shot up on Tuesday after the small biotech firm gave a positive update on their development of a PCR test for monkeypox. Shares jumped to $3.71 as of 3:00 pm ET, up 425% from yesterday's close of $.70.The wave of investors snapped up shares after Applied DNA announced it started the validation of its polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for the monkeypox virus. The company's subsidiary, Applied DNA Clinical Labs, will be in charge of approving the technology, after which Applied DNA Sciences will be able to seek approval from state regulators.If approved, the company will be able to test people for the virus across New York, which has <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/states-cities-declared-states-of-emergency-over-monkeypox-outbreaks-2022-8">declared a state of emergency due to rising monkeypox</a> infections, along with California and Illinois.Now a step closer to widespread testing, the firm's announcement generated enough excitement to have the stock stopped 27 times for volatile trading today."Based on our experience with the COVID-19 pandemic, we are keenly aware of the crucial role PCR-based diagnostic tools can play in responding and helping to control public health outbreaks," Applied DNA Chief Executive James Hayward said in a statement. "ADCL stands ready to apply its testing capacity in service of New Yorkers' health."

A small biotech firm's stock spiked 425% after giving a positive update on a PCR test for monkeypox

<ul class="summary-list"><li>At-home <keyword id="11893194" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="coronavirus" source="Orion">coronavirus</keyword> tests are in high demand amidst the Omicron surge.</li><li>You can buy "rapid" antigen tests, or <keyword id="6361808" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="pcr" source="Orion">PCR</keyword> tests, which are the "gold standard" and are usually processed in a lab.</li></ul>It might be time to stock up on home coronavirus tests again — if you can find them.As COVID cases surged in recent weeks, Google searches for "home coronavirus test" also spiked. People seeking tests have found <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/cvs-low-on-covid-tests-limiting-the-number-customers-buy-2021-8">drugstore shelves empty</a> and Amazon inventory <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=rapid+antigen+test+for+covid+19&amp;i=industrial&amp;crid=3NNV85EG4R9F&amp;sprefix=anitgen+%2Cindustrial%2C167&amp;ref=nb_sb_ss_sc_1_8">sold out</a>.Even if demand for testing is climbing to early pandemic levels, at least the technology for testing at home has improved since 2020.Now, you can buy a variety of tests online or <a href="https://cvshealth.com/news-and-insights/press-releases/over-the-counter-covid-19-testing-now-available-at-cvs-pharmacy">at the drugstore,</a> some of which return results in <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-get-use-home-rapid-coronavirus-tests-2020-12">as little as 15 minutes</a>.In some circumstances, it's possible to get free at-home tests. According to the White House, that will become even easier come January, when the federal government promises to start mailing out 500 million free, at-home COVID tests to people who need them.Here's how to get hold of at-home coronavirus tests, and how to use them correctly to ensure an accurate result.<h2>You can buy rapid antigen tests in pharmacies</h2>Most of the over-the-counter, at-home testing options are rapid antigen tests, which can return results within 10 to 15 minutes.The Abbott BinaxNOW, Ellume <keyword id="11893994" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="covid-19" source="Orion">Covid-19</keyword> Home, and Quidel QuickVue tests are among the most widely available rapid antigen tests authorized by the FDA. They're sold in most drugstores, including CVS, Walgreens, and Duane Reade.They cost between $20 and $30, but their availability might be limited right now due to <a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2021-08-30/high-demand-for-at-home-covid-tests-could-hamper-supply-abbott-says">high demand</a>.The majority of at-home antigen tests use some sort of nasal swab, and some of them come with an app or instructional video to walk you through the process.Abbott and Quidel's tests both show two lines for a positive test and one line for a negative, similar to a pregnancy test. Ellume's <keyword id="11996463" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="rapid-test" source="Orion">rapid test</keyword> returns results via an app.<h2>You can get PCR and rapid tests delivered by Amazon, DoorDash, or a private lab</h2>Amazon has sold rapid antigen tests and at-home collection kits for PCR testing. At the time of publication, most or all of the antigen tests were listed as "currently unavailable" with no restock date.The site currently stocks an Amazon-brand PCR kit for $39.99, as well as a similar nasal swab kit from EmpowerDX and a saliva test kit made by DxTerity, each for $99.Home PCR test kits are more expensive than antigen tests, but they're also <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-test-rapid-antigen-test-lateral-flow-pcr-explained-2021-1">better at diagnosing COVID-19</a>. Once you send away your nasal swab or saliva sample, you can expect results within one or two business days of the lab receiving your kit.The food delivery service DoorDash recently announced it now delivers PCR tests on behalf of Vault <keyword id="11894571" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="health" source="Orion">Health</keyword> and Everlywell in <a href="https://ir.doordash.com/news/news-details/2021/DoorDash-Launches-On-Demand-Delivery-of-COVID-19-PCR-Test-Collection-Kits-Through-Partnerships-with-Vault-Health-and-Everlywell/default.aspx">12 cities with more to come</a>. The Vault kit, which includes a video consultation to supervise saliva collection, costs $119. The Everywell kit, a self-guided lower nasal swab, costs $109. Both are available for same-day delivery on the DoorDash app.It's also possible to order self-collection kits directly from labs, like the Pixel kit from LabCorp.<h2>Some states and cities offer free at-home tests</h2>Residents of Colorado, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Ohio, New Jersey, New Hampshire, and Washington are eligible for free at-home tests, which they can order online via each state's website. The cities of <a href="https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/coronavirus/nyc-starts-handing-out-free-covid-test-kits-as-cases-surge-to-staggering-heights/3465292/">New York City</a>, <a href="https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/where-to-get-at-home-rapid-testing-kits-covid-19-washington-dc-libraries/65-6ea558d7-3f48-4b49-b0c8-534442767700">Washington, DC</a>, and <a href="https://6abc.com/free-covid-tests-philadelphia-nj-coronavirus-rapid-test/11367191/">Philadelphia</a> are offering the same service.<a href="https://www.npr.org/2021/12/22/1065799880/as-omicron-surges-these-states-and-cities-are-focused-on-giving-out-free-covid-t"></a>Over Christmas, as tests have been in short supply, there have been upticks in people <a href="https://kdvr.com/news/coronavirus/at-home-testing-kits-vanish-from-colorado-stores-people-line-up-at-testing-sites/">lining up</a> at clinics for in-person testing, saying their local website wasn't working. However, health departments <a href="https://kdvr.com/news/coronavirus/colorado-orders-2-million-more-at-home-covid-19-test-kits/">insist</a> there is more on the way.<h2>Antigen testing has its limitations</h2><div type="image" title="home testing thumb" height="820" width="1267" msid="85816208" hostid="261"></div>Taking a rapid antigen test is currently the quickest way to determine your COVID status without leaving the house, but that doesn't mean it's your most accurate testing option. Antigen tests <a href="https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD013705.pub2/full">aren't as sensitive</a> as the gold-standard PCR test, which means you're more likely to get a false negative.Antigen tests work best for confirming that a symptomatic infection is COVID-19, so these are good ones to have on hand for the next time you feel sick. But if you're testing to rule out an asymptomatic infection, you may want to try a different option.<h2>For more sensitive testing, get a PCR test and send your swab away</h2>You can also purchase a <a href="https://www.insider.com/best-at-home-covid-19-tests">home test kit for PCR testing</a>, which is currently the "gold standard" for coronavirus diagnostics.While antigen tests screen for specific proteins in the coronavirus, PCR tests take a closer look for any trace of the virus' genetic material. The process usually takes place in a lab, but some test kits let you collect your own samples at home.There are some fully at-home PCR tests in the works from Cue and Lucira, but neither is available at retailers yet. Lucira is selling the test directly to <keyword id="11897506" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="healthcare" source="Orion">healthcare</keyword> providers, and the Cue COVID-19 test is expected to be available for direct consumer purchase later this fall.

Where to find at-home COVID tests — including for free — and how to use them correctly

India <keyword id="105297" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="head-coach" source="Orion">head coach</keyword> <keyword id="19692" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ravi-shastri" source="Orion">Ravi Shastri</keyword> has tested positive for coronavirus and was isolated along with three of his close contacts including team's bowling coach Bharath Arun as a precautionary measure, the <keyword id="6354756" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BCCI" source="Orion">BCCI</keyword> revealed on Sunday. Shastri returned a positive result on a lateral flow test (Rapid Antigen Test) and will stay in isolation till the report of his and others' <keyword id="3649617" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="RT-PCR-test" source="Orion">RT-PCR test</keyword> reports come. There is no threat to the ongoing fourth Test against England as all the other playing members have tested negative in two lateral flow tests conducted on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Fielding coach R Sridhar and head physiotherapist Nitin Patel have also been isolated. "The BCCI Medical Team has isolated Mr Ravi Shastri, Head Coach, Mr B. Arun, Bowling Coach, Mr R. Sridhar, Fielding Coach and Mr Nitin Patel, Physiotherapist as a precautionary measure after Mr Shastri's lateral flow test returned positive last evening," BCCI secretary Jay Shah stated in a release. The team is set to travel to Manchester on Tuesday and if these four test positive in RT-PCR, they will have to undero 10-day room isolation followed by two negative RT-PCR results. "They have undergone RT-PCR testing and shall remain in the team hotel and not travel with Team India until confirmation from the medical team," he further added. "The remaining members of the Team India contingent underwent two Lateral Flow Tests - one last night and another this morning. The members upon returning negative COVID reports were allowed to proceed for Day 4 of the ongoing fourth Test at The Oval." The lateral flow tests always doesn't give accurate results as it is a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) and it is a form of self test with the kit being provided to each member of the side. The Indian contingent has been carrying out lateral flow tests every single day since Rishabh Pant tested positive for COVID during the three week break. It is understood that Shastri may have got the symptoms after attending his book launch event in the team hotel where outside guests were also allowed. "Since there is no restrictions in the UK, outside guests were allowed during Shastri's book launch party. These people also were his closest contacts, so it has now led to mandatory isolation," a BCCI source said. "You feel for Bharath Arun. This is the second time, that he has to be isolated because someone else had tested positive. Last time it was Dayanand Garani, the masseur, who came in contact with Arun and later tested positive," he added. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sports/news/paralympics-krishna-nagar-bags-gold-medal-in-badminton-sh6-class-for-india/articleshow/85942364.cms">Paralympics: Krishna Nagar bags gold medal in badminton SH6 class for India</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/atal-pension-yojna-dominates-social-security-scheme-with-66-nps-subscriber-base/articleshow/85945387.cms">Atal Pension Yojna dominates social security scheme with 66% NPS subscriber base</a>

India cricket coach Ravi Shastri tests COVID positive, placed in isolation

The <keyword id="6356172" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Maharashtra-government">Maharashtra government</keyword> on Thursday extended the lockdown-like restrictions in the state till June 1 to break the chain of COVID-19. Chief Secretary Sitaram Kunte in an order said the curbs will remain in force till 7 am on June 1. As per the order, additional restrictions include mandatory negative RT-PCR test report for any person entering the state by any mode of transport. The test report will have to be issued within 48 hours before the time of entry into the state. All restrictions enforced as per earlier orders for people arriving from places of "sensitive origin" will be applicable to anyone arriving from any part of the country into the state, the order said. In case of cargo carriers, not more than two people will be allowed to travel in those vehicles. If the carriers are originating from outside <keyword id="13126" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Maharashtra">Maharashtra</keyword>,they will be allowed with a negative RT-PCR test report issued within 48 hours before the time of entry into the state and will be valid for seven days, the order said. The lockdown-like curbs were earlier imposed in the state on April 5. The curbs were further tightened on April 15 with Section 144 of the CrPc, banning assembly of five or more people, imposed in theentire state. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/whatsapp-responds-to-privacy-criticism-by-alleging-other-apps-like-zomato-ola-aarogya-setu-zoom-google-and-other-apps/articleshow/82570897.cms">WhatsApp responds to privacy criticism by alleging that other apps and tech companies also show disdain for user privacy</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/vodafone-idea-adds-subscribers-for-the-first-time-in-15-months/articleshow/82568343.cms">Vodafone Idea shares up by 10% as it adds subscribers for the first time in 15 months – Airtel, Reliance Jio expand their user base</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/markets/news/heres-why-the-spike-in-inflation-in-the-us-may-worry-markets-in-india/articleshow/82597218.cms">Here's why the spike in inflation in the US may worry markets in India ⁠— but experts say don’t panic yet</a>

You Searched For "PCR based test kits" and got 10 results

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