The new antigen-based rapid tests are already in use in Hungary
Since last week, hundreds of the new antigen-based rapid tests have already been used by the Hungarian ambulances.
According to a study by the National Center for Public Health, the results of the antigen tests coincide with those of the PCR tests. The tests can be used to shorten the start of treatment for patients with coronavirus by several days.
The new antigen-based test is considered to be a step forward due to its “specificity”. If the test result is positive, it means that the person is infected with more than 95% certainty.
“The beginning of the procedure is very similar to the PCR test, as here the sampling is done from the gullet. After that, the sample is mixed in a special liquor, from which we drop on a test strip which gives a result in 15 minutes.” – explained Pál Győrfi, spokesman for the National Ambulance Service.
Even though the new antigen-based test provides a smooth and efficient procedure, it does not replace the conventional PCR test.
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As the Hungarian news portal Portfolio reports, ambulance units use the rapid test first to decide which hospital the patient should go to. If the test is positive, the patient is placed in the Covid ward of the appropriate hospital; if it is negative, he/she is “only” among the patients suspected of having Covid.
Since last week, 750 ambulance units have been using the new rapid tests, from which additional supply can be expected.
Source: portfolio.hu