Based on the available evidence, rapid saliva antigen tests are not currently recommended as an alternative to oral / nasopharyngeal swabs, as they do not reach the minimum acceptable levels of sensitivity and specificity. In addition, salivary matrix antigen tests are currently excluded from the common European list of rapid antigen tests valid for obtaining the Covid-19 Green Certification. This is indicated by the new circular of the Ministry of Health with particular reference to the monitoring of viral circulation in schools. (Yes to salivary tests for school screening, but the use of ‘molecular salivary’ tests is recommended only in some cases. This is what is stated in the circular issued by the Ministry of Health.
Rapid Covid tests: less effective but useful for controlling infections
by Noemi Penna
“The use of molecular salivary tests requires a higher number of steps that involve longer times for the processing of the samples – he adds -. Therefore, in order to avoid the overload of the regional microbiology laboratories, which in addition to the ordinary activities will be employed in monitoring the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 in the school setting, and to ensure adequate resources to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of this public health activity, as well as to rely on more robust evidence about the characteristics of the tests performed on these matrices, molecular tests on salivary samples, at least in a first phase of start-up, can be considered an alternative option to gold / nasopharyngeal swabs exclusively: in fragile individuals (symptomatic or asymptomatic) with poor collaboration skills (for example elderly in RSA , disabled people, people with autism spectrum disorders); as part of screening activities in children involved in the SARS-CoV-2 Circulation Monitoring Plan in the school setting; for the screening of case contacts in children even if the school is not part of the Monitoring Plan; in health and socio-health workers in the context of scheduled screening in the workplace “.
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