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WHO clears rapid Ebola test
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WHO today cleared the use of a rapid diagnostic test for Ebola infection, which can produce results within 15 minutes, according to a press release.
The ReEBOV Antigen Rapid Test Kit (Corgenix) was assessed under WHO’s Emergency Assessment and Use, a procedure that provides minimum quality, safety and performance assurance for diagnostic products in the context of the current Ebola outbreak.
Standard nucleic acid tests (NATs) are complex and require trained laboratory personnel to use. While NATs are more accurate than the ReEBOV test, time to results can range between 12 and 24 hours. The new rapid test, which is based on the detection of the Ebola protein rather than nucleic acid, is easier to perform and does not require electricity. It can therefore be used in remote settings or in mobile units, according to WHO.
Compared with NATs being used in the field, the ReEBOV test is capable of correctly identifying approximately 92% of infected patients and 85% of those who are uninfected.
If possible, results from the ReEBOV test should be confirmed by testing a new blood sample using an approved Ebola NAT, according to WHO.