Africa's New Rapid Antigen Tests Change the Coronavirus Challenge

The new World Health Organization (WHO) approved antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests for the novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus in Africa will significantly boost testing capacity and marks a game-changer in the continent’s fight against COVID-19. For example, Senegal has significantly boosted its testing capacity.

Currently, the tests which WHO has approved for emergency use are the “standard Q COVID-19 Antigen Test by SD Biosensor Inc” and the “Panbio COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test Device” manufactured by Abbott. They test for proteins produced by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Bodily fluids are taken from a nasal swab and applied with liquid to a paper strip, where a dye gives the result.

“The widespread use of high-quality rapid testing in Africa can revolutionize the continent’s response to COVID-19,” said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, in a press statement issued on October 22, 2020. “The new, antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests will help meet the huge testing needs in Africa.”