RT-PCR Saliva Test

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is an alternative sampling method to the usual RT-PCR swab test. It has a high accuracy rate, it is less invasive, and cost-effective hence it is more convenient for the Filipino public. This type of test can be used for local travel.

Saliva as a Diagnostic Specimen

 

The use of saliva as a diagnostic specimen has several advantages. Sampling is non-invasive and can be collected with minimal or no healthcare worker assistance, allowing for self-collection and mass sampling.

 

It causes no pain or discomfort, making it suitable for children, the elderly, and the disabled. It is easy to handle and cheap to store and transport, potentially allowing for large-scale population screening.

 

Accuracy: 98.11%

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Saliva collection reduces the time and cost associated with the specimen collection thus will help in increased testing of patients and in mass screening. Specimen collection can be done where negative ventilation chambers are not available such as in outpatient clinics, community or household areas.

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The use of saliva is preferred over nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal specimens for serial viral load monitoring because this would reduce the discomfort to the patient and reduce the health hazards to healthcare workers during repeated sampling. 

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How is it done?

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Patients only have to spit into a sterile vial that will then be submitted to a DOH-accredited laboratory for analysis.

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For a step by step guide, please watch the video below.

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Where to get a test? Saliva-based RT-PCR test is now offered at ISPS!