COVID-19 testing in the country, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) today allowed all the states to start using rapid antigen testing.
Known as the Standard Q COVID-19 Ag kit, antigen detection test does not require any specialised machine. It can show results within 30 minutes and "can be interpreted with a naked eye".
The antigen testing is a promising tool for quick diagnosis of coronavirus infection in field settings, the ICMR said.The antigen test kit has been developed by a South Korean biotechnology firm SD Biosensor.
Each kit will cost ₹450. "The antigen test has been found to have a very high specificity with moderate sensitivity," the medical body said.