KCL TEST: an open-source inspired asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 surveillance programme in an academic institution

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Public Health
• Laboratory Diagnostics

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid and accessible diagnostic testing.
• Asymptomatic transmission posed a significant challenge to disease control.
• Universities possess underutilized resources for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the establishment and operation of KCL TEST, a university-based SARS-CoV-2 asymptomatic testing program.
• To provide a blueprint for establishing similar diagnostic laboratories, especially in low-resource settings.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of community-based asymptomatic testing in managing viral spread.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a sensitive SARS-CoV-2 RNA saliva PCR testing program.
• Utilization of open-source automation and in-house, non-commercial reagents for cost-effectiveness and rapid deployment.
• Performance of 158,277 PCR tests between December 2020 and July 2022.

Main Results:

• Achieved an average turnaround time of 16 hours and 37 minutes from registration to result.
• Detected a lower positive rate compared to national surveillance data, with minimal detection of the Delta variant.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of large-scale, free-of-charge asymptomatic testing within a university community.

Conclusions:

• Regular asymptomatic community testing is effective in reducing outbreaks and ensuring safe environments.
• Academic institutions can play a crucial role in pandemic preparedness through agile and accurate testing capabilities.
• Low-cost, efficient diagnostic pipelines developed in academic settings are vital for future public health emergencies.