Singapore launches COVID-19 ‘breathalyser’; it detects infection in under a minute

A Singapore company claims to have developed a test very similar to that of the breathalyser for detecting the alcohol level in the blood, to trace a possible coronavirus infection. All of this, according to the researchers at Breathonix, in less than 60 seconds and with an accuracy — compared to the traditional detection method — of about 90 per cent.

Nov 04, 2020

SINGAPORE: A Singapore company claims to have developed a test very similar to that of the breathalyser for detecting the alcohol level in the blood, to trace a possible coronavirus infection. All of this, according to the researchers at Breathonix, in less than 60 seconds and with an accuracy — compared to the traditional detection method — of about 90 per cent.

The company, a recently formed start-up born within the National University of Singapore, confirms the high reliability of the surveys carried out so far in the context of a clinical trial that involved 180 people in the city-state. In a note, Breathonix explains that it is finalising the final steps and is ready to apply for — and obtain — the licence for use early next year.

A veritable race against time is underway all over the world to develop rapid and reliable tests that allow the presence of a person infected with the new coronavirus to be detected. At the moment the molecular buffer (PCR) is used, which in addition to being invasive, and requiring trained  personnel, requires laboratories and equipped structures to carry out an analysis of several hours. This involves a delay in the detection of possible contacts and in the interruption of the chain of infections, which is what is happening in recent weeks in various European countries.

Breathonix is currently developing its tests in Singapore with the aim of further improving accuracy and receiving the green light for commercial use in the first quarter of 2021. The estimated cost is about 70 per cent cheaper than the classic swabs, which would then be used secondarily “because they are more sensitive”, as confirmed in the case of a positive detection on the spirometer.

“The breath test is more like a first level screen device,” said Jia Zhunan, co-founder and CEO of Breathonix, adding it could be deployed at conferences, sports events and concerts.

The device uses disposable mouthpieces and is designed to ensure there is no cross-contamination. ––Asia News

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