Samples for testing with a conventional kit, which takes longer to show results.
Photo: PA. An Irish company is preparing to release rapid Covid-19 testing kits, which can provide results in 15 minutes and potentially act as a "clinical weapon" against coronavirus.
The tests have been developed with the same technology contained in pregnancy tests and although they are in a pilot phase, they could reduce testing times dramatically from four hours to just 15 minutes.
"So we worked with a partner to develop the kit to bring it to market and it's CE certified for diagnostic use in Ireland.
The Assay Genie kit uses colloidal gold immunochromatography to detect the virus and antibodies in human blood, serum and plasma.
The kit is so far a research-use only test but there have been "lots of contacts from Irish hospitals and in the UK, and round the world," Mr Ryan said.
Mr Ryan also believes that anyone who is caring for the elderly and the vulnerable should also have easier access to testing. »