Laboratories will no longer use nasal or throat swabs to look for traces of the virus, but rather analyse saliva samples. To complete this new form of PCR test, people have to fill a cup with at least 2 millimetres of saliva to guarantee an accurate result.
Dr Thomas Dentzer, virologist from the Health Directorate, provides further insight into the pilot project: "Right from the beginning of the crisis, we tried looking for alternative technologies and tests to hopefully fine alternatives that are more cost-effective, precise, or comfortable. We hope to now attract people that may have shied away from nasal swabs."
If the pilot project at the Howald testing site works well, the method will be extended to other centres: "If all goes well, this may be a way out of this extensive testing. It may help replace swabs in schools and businesses, for instance, which would eventually allow us to close the large centres in the country."
People taking the saliva test are advised not to eat, drink, or smoke half an hour prior to the test. Furthermore, people should not brush their teeth or use chewing gum during the same time frame. Results cannot be tricked by ignoring these rules, officials warn.
