GIFU CITY – Yasue Hospital, located in Kagamijima-nishi, Gifu City, has introduced a new machine to check for the presence of infection by the new coronavirus. The machine, manufactured by Abbott in the U.S., uses the NEAR method, which is as accurate as the PCR method, the standard testing method. It is characterized by its ability to determine positive and negative results in a few to ten minutes.

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As with the PCR method, DNA is collected and multiplied to check for the presence of viral infection. The test takes only 5 minutes for a positive result and 13 minutes for a negative result, which is shorter than the PCR test.

The hospital has been using the antigen test for outpatients with fever. The antigen test had to be done a few days after the fever to check for the presence of infection.

The antigen test requires the collection of mucous membranes from the back of the nose, which is physically burdensome, but with the new testing equipment, only a relatively small amount of mucous membranes from the front of the nasal cavity are needed, which is said to reduce the burden. A representative of the hospital said, “We will respond to the needs of local residents by making it easier for them to have the test.

This device was approved by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare in December last year.

News Source: Gifu Shinbun

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