New COVID-19 test could give results in under 15 minutes

The wait time for coronavirus test results could be dramatically cut down with a new test that’s being called a game-changer.

Instead of days, Abbott Laboratories says it has a test that will give results in less than 15 minutes.

The test is called ID NOW COVID-19, and Abbott is ramping up production this week of the nasal swab test to 50,000 units per day, CNBC reported.

“Just like flu or strep, you go to the doctor, get the test done … you can get an answer within minutes of having this test done,” Stephen Hahn, U.S. Commissioner of Food and Drugs, said.

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The tests don’t need to be sent to a lab. A portable device that’s roughly the size of a toaster is used.

Experts in Pennsylvania say this will be a crucial tool in the fight against the pandemic, but everyone needs to still follow the important guidelines in place.

“It helps us provide the care we need, but it’s going to be problematic if people use it and think that it means that they’re immune and can avoid the social distancing that we have now,” Dr. Arvind Venkat, Allegheny Health Network Emergency Physician and president of the Pennsylvania College of Emergency Physicians, said.

Abbott’s CEO told CNBC the company got federal clearance for two coronavirus tests, and it’s working on more.

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