FDA Approves SalivaDirect COVID-19 Test

On August 15, 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for the SalivaDirect COVID-19 test to detect infection with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in asymptomatic individuals. This is the fifth test that the FDA has authorized that uses saliva as a sample for testing. SalivaDirect was developed by the Yale University School of Public Health.

SalivaDirect works with saliva samples taken from any type of sterile container. It does not require a specific swab or collection device, nor does it need additional chemicals for extracting the virus’ genetic material from . . .