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In the coming weeks, multiple test locations in the Netherlands will make use of rapid tests that can indicate if someone is infected with the coronavirus within one hour. There are many tests in development which can provide such rapid test results, but how do they work?

With the current PCR test, it could take up to 48 hours to receive the test results and there are concerns that the current test capacity may not be sufficient during the coming cold season where many people experience Covid-19-like symptoms. Therefore, a corona test that provides rapid test results could be a promising solution.

One of these rapid tests is the Loop mediAted isotherMal amPlification test, or LAMP test. This test is based on inactivation of the virus particle of the sample, after which the genetic material, specifically the RNA, can be rapidly amplified and detected. The method for this test is based on the current PCR test, can be analyzed on location and provides results in 45 minutes. Furthermore, the LAMP test requires less of the scarce reagents and materials than the PCR test and is thereby also less expensive.

Another kind of test of which there are several in development is the antigen test, which in contrast to the PCR test, does not detect genetic material of the virus but detects viral proteins, or antigens. These antigens can be detected by the use of antibodies. This test provides results in just 15 minutes but is not as sensitive as the PCR test. If someone has a low viral load, the test could come out negative instead of positive. However, this does not have to be a major issue since people with a lower viral load are less likely to infect others.  

Last but not least, there is also a test method based on breath analyses. In contrast to other tests, this test does not indicate if you are infected but determines that you are nót infected with the coronavirus within just a few seconds. This test can be really useful for excluding people from further testing that are in line at the test locations. Therefore, less people would require a test using one of the other test methods, which is beneficial in terms of costs, time and workload.

Currently, the Dutch government is still busy with finding out what the optimal testing procedure is and is running trials at several testing locations. For more information about corona tests click .