COVID-19: Update on Search for New Tests

By Jane Farrell

One of the top concerns in the COVID-19 pandemic has been getting enough tests for people who may have the illness.

The federal Food and Drug Administration said it has worked with 270 test developers who are going to submit emergency use authorizations (EUA) requests to the FDA.

In a news release the FDA said it has issued 28 emergency use authorizations.

These include Abbott Diagnostics Scarborough, Inc., ID NOW COVID-19. This is considered a “rapid” test   meaning it lasts 13 minutes or less. , a rapid (13 minutes or less) test. Additionally, the FDA has been notified that more than 145 laboratories have begun testing under the policies set forth in the agency’s COVID-19 Policy for Diagnostic Tests for Coronavirus Disease-2019 during the Public Health Emergency Guidance.

For more from to the FDA on the progress of diagnostic-test approval and use, click here. The information is updated on an ongoing basis.