TQ
@SDBIOSENSOR_PR used in Msia is pre-qualified by @WHO
Validated by IMR-90% Sensitivity & 100% Specificity.
RTK-Ag is an excellent test for contagiousness-detect within 1-2hr-Isolate-Contact Trace.
Rapid response to bust clusters/outbreaks @imaret_my @FIMAweb @imamalaysia https://twitter.com/alinouriphd/status/1344760629488480256

RTK-Ag Negative in early/late COVID due to LOW viral loads & LESS infectious
Excellent surveillance tool Repeating +VE RTK-Ag with PCR for admission isn’t smart since LOW false +VE/delays iso/waste resources
Simple-Cheap-Rapid-Unburdens Lab Staff who r burnt out since Feb 2020!

Yes! Repeat RTK-Ag if unwell
Early COVID-low viral loads-poor pick up by RTK-Ag
In infectious COVID (inc asymptomatic & pre-symptomatic) CT<25 detection is >95%
Late COVID-CT>33-dead virus-RTK negative-PCR positive-BUT NOT infectious @imaret_my @FIMAweb @imamalaysia

Pls read this excellent thread by @michaelmina_lab the strongest proponent for rapid testing kits as a public health tool. This is exactly what we are doing in our triaged mass rapid testing in Selangor to bust #COVID19 https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1345702930066898944.html

Our Test Positive Rate is hovering at 8%
Spore & NZ & Aust <1%
WHO rules that +VE Rate >5% means epidemic is NOT under control
We are under-diagnosing the true no of infections
Or the infection is spreading unchecked despite MCO etc