04 Jan Aegis Sciences Corporation launches saliva testing for COVID-19
Aegis now offering a less invasive way of testing some patients for COVID-19
Nashville, Tennessee (January 4, 2021) – For initial diagnostic testing for SARS-CoV-2, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends collecting and testing an upper respiratory specimen. Nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, nasal mid-turbinate, anterior nares, and saliva specimens are acceptable and all can be utilized for COVID-19 testing at Aegis. Saliva specimen collection must be completed using the OMNIgene•ORAL OM-505® or OME-505® device provided by Aegis.
Saliva collection offers reduced risk to healthcare workers as it allows for socially-distanced specimen collection, is simpler and less uncomfortable for patients, and requires less training for collectors. Collections should be completed in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines.
Aegis’s testing method demonstrated 100% sensitivity at a limit of detection of 400 copies/ml, and samples have been determined to be stable at room temperature for up to 7 days after collection. An in-house verification of the performance of the Thermo Fisher Scientific TaqPath™ COVID-19 Combo Kit
demonstrated >98% concordance of results with known positive and negative clinical samples.
“We are very excited to offer saliva collection at Aegis. This specimen type has gained favor over time as it has demonstrated similar sensitivity and specificity to more traditional upper respiratory specimens. This is a great alternative for providers seeking out a simple means for collecting specimens while reducing risk of person-to-person virus transmission,” said Dr. Matthew Hardison, SVP Lab Operations Aegis Sciences Corporation.
On average, results will be available within a targeted 24-hour turnaround time via fax or Aegis’ healthcare results portal. Test results are reported as “positive,” “negative,” or “indeterminate.” Aegis will report all COVID-19 test results to the health department of the state in which the patient resides.
About Aegis Sciences Corporation
Founded in 1990, Aegis Sciences Corporation is a laboratory sciences company based in Nashville, Tenn., that provides science-driven testing and consulting services for clients such as healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, professional and amateur sports organizations, leading college and university athletic programs, Fortune 500 corporations, and government agencies throughout the United States. For more information please visit https://www.aegislabs.com/.