Abbot launches COVID-19 test that detects positive results in 5 minutes

Abbot has launched a new molecular point-of-care test that can detect positive COVID-19 patients in just five minutes.

Abbot’s molecular test searches for just a small section of the coronavirus genome, then amplifying the said section until the virus is detected. Completing the search to rule out the infection can take up to 13 minutes.

The new test will run on Abbot’s ID NOW platform. Weighing only 6.6 pounds and as large as a small toaster, Abbot’s ID NOW platform can be used almost anywhere.

The ID NOW COVID-19 tests had been given an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the US Food and Drug Administration last Friday. It will be available in the US starting next week, and Abbot will be ramping up production to deliver 50,000 tests per day.

“Through the incredible work of teams across Abbott, we expect to deliver 50,000 COVID-19 tests per day to healthcare professionals on the front lines, where testing capabilities are needed most,” Chris Scoggins said, Abbot’s senior vice president, Rapid Diagnostics.