Home testing kit for Covid 19 with a Yes or No answer could be available in the autumn
It is being developed by researchers in Manchester
Home testing kits for Covid-19 that can diagnose the disease with a simple yes or no answer could be ready for use by autumn, scientists have said.
The hand-held device, which looks like a home pregnancy test, is being developed by researchers at the University of Manchester.
Unlike other diagnostic tests being used, which look for traces of the genetic material of the virus, the Manchester prototype examines the "chains of sugars" that coat all human cells.
Professor Rob Field, of the University of Manchester, said: "Our existing prototype product for influenza can detect the virus in less than 20 minutes and could be adapted to identify other pathogens such as coronavirus.
"Respiratory viruses invade the body through cells in the airways and lungs.
"These cells are covered in a coat of sugar chains, known as glycans, which are used for normal function of human tissues.
"Viruses can utilise these glycans as part of the infection process."
Published: by Radio NewsHub