Ultra-fast Covid test could give results in under a minute

U.K., Sept. 16 -- A new COVID-19 test could provide accurate results in under a minute, according to its developers.

The EU-funded consortium CORONADX is developing PATHAG, a test they say will be ultra rapid and suitable for mass screening for the virus.

The system uses antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 - the virus that causes COVID-19 - that are fixed to microscopic latex beads. If a patient's sample contains the virus, the antibodies bind to the viral particles and bring the latex beads along, forming a visible clump. This reaction occurs within seconds and can be done on a small, inexpensive paper strip. A positive result will show up as grains on the paper.

The system is currently being tested on cotton swab samples taken from patien...