A new Covid testing method, which involves gargling saline water, is expected to significantly cut RT-PCR test costs. However, a controversy has erupted with AIIMS and NEERI claiming that they first discovered the new method.
India News: NEW DELHI: The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) has developed a simple and fast method of swab collection and processing .
The patient gargles the solution and rinses it inside the tube.
The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) has developed a simple and fast method of swab collection and processing for RT-PCR coronavirus test which could be used in rural and tribal areas. The method is simple, fast, cost-effective, patient-friendly and comfortable, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) said. It is well-suited for rural and tribal areas, given minimal infrastructure requirements, it said. The Nagpur-based NEERI is a constituent laboratory of CSIR. Krishna Khairnar, senior scientist, Environmental Virology Cell at NEERI, said the swab collection method requires time. Moreover, since it is an invasive technique, it is a bit uncomfortable for patients.