Chinese scientists ‘invent Covid-19 test that gives result within four minutes’

It is as accurate as a PCR test but cuts out the need for lab analysis, according to Fudan University team. New testing device uses mechanical components made of DNA combined with microelectronics and sends results to a phone or computer. — SCMP

Chinese scientists say they have developed a new Covid-19 testing device that can return accurate results within four minutes and is as accurate as the widely used PCR tests.

Researchers from Fudan University in Shanghai said that, if developed further, their device could be used for testing in airports, clinics, emergency departments and homes. Unlike the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests currently in use, samples would not require time-consuming laboratory analysis, they said.