New coronavirus test produces result within minutes
Scientists at the University of the West of Scotland say it could relieve pressure on hospitals in countries where PCR tests aren't readily available.
Researchers at the University of the West of Scotland are hoping to speed up the time it takes to get a coronavirus result.
They've developed a test which uses x-ray technology to compare scans to a database of around 3 thousand patients.
Professor Naeem Ramzan, Director of the Affective and Human Computing for SMART Environments Research Centre at UWS, said: “There has long been a need for a quick and reliable tool that can detect Covid-19, and this has become even more true with the upswing of the Omicron variant.
“Covid-19 symptoms are not visible in x-rays during the early stages of infection, so it is important to note that the technology cannot fully replace PCR tests.
“However, it can still play an important role in curtailing the viruses spread especially when PCR tests are not readily available."
It's hoped the test can eventually be rolled out across the country to help relieve strain on A&E departments.
Professor Milan Radosavljevic, Vice-Principal of Research, Innovation and Engagement at UWS, added: “This is potentially game-changing research.
"It’s another example of the purposeful, impactful work that has gone on at UWS throughout the pandemic, making a genuine difference in the fight against Covid-19.
“I am incredibly proud of the drive and innovation demonstrated by our internationally renowned academics, as they strive to find solutions to urgent global problems.”
The team now plans to expand the study, incorporating a greater database of x-ray images acquired by different models of x-ray machines, to evaluate the suitability of the approach in a clinical setting.