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Implementation of a Rapid RT-LAMP Saliva-Based SARS-CoV-2 Testing Program in the Workplace.
Bradley W M Cook1, Kaitlyn Kobasa1, Marielou Tamayo1
1Cytophage Technologies Inc., Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1G4, Canada.
Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 25, 2022
Summary
An in-house rapid testing program using reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) effectively identified SARS-CoV-2 cases early. This method offers quick, cost-effective, and safe workplace surveillance for infectious diseases.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Rising SARS-CoV-2 cases necessitated rapid diagnostic solutions to mitigate transmission.
- Testing delays and asymptomatic spread posed significant challenges to traditional surveillance methods.
Observation:
- An in-house program utilized pooled saliva samples for routine testing via colorimetric RT-LAMP.
- Heat inactivation of samples preceded RT-LAMP assay for SARS-CoV-2 detection (ORF1ab gene) and human control (RNase P).
Findings:
- Two individuals, an employee and household contact, tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 via RT-LAMP within two days.
- Clinical qRT-PCR confirmation 5 days later validated the rapid RT-LAMP findings, highlighting its speed.
Implications:
- Workplace RT-LAMP programs offer flexible, cost-effective, and rapid SARS-CoV-2 detection.
- Non-invasive saliva self-collection enhances safety for testing personnel.
- Minimal training requirements facilitate widespread implementation of RT-LAMP for disease surveillance.
