The BD Veritor System for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2 is a lateral flow immunoassay that displays results visually. A test strip within the device contains a control line and a test line. The appearance of two lines, one at the control region and another at the test region, typically indicates a positive result for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antigens. A single line at the control region signals a negative result, while the absence of a control line signifies an invalid test, necessitating retesting with a new device.
Rapid antigen tests, such as the BD Veritor, offer advantages in accessibility and speed, providing results within minutes. This rapid turnaround time allows for quicker decision-making regarding isolation and treatment, crucial for controlling the spread of infectious diseases. Such tests have become particularly valuable tools in pandemic management, enabling widespread and frequent testing in various settings, from schools and workplaces to healthcare facilities. However, it is essential to remember that these tests typically have lower sensitivity compared to molecular tests like PCR. Therefore, confirmatory testing with a molecular method may be recommended, especially for individuals with negative results but exhibiting symptoms.
