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FDA Approves New Swab to Ramp Up COVID-19 Testing
As the practice of dentistry comes with inherent risks in the era of COVID-19 due to the production of aerosols common in many dental treatments, the availability of widespread and rapid COVID-19 testing is integral to the ability of dental practices to reopen.
As the practice of dentistry comes with inherent risks in the era of COVID-19 due to the production of aerosols common in many dental treatments, the availability of widespread and rapid COVID-19 testing is integral to the ability of dental practices to reopen. The US Food and Drug Administration has some good news in this arena, as it has just broadened the category of swabs that can be used to perform diagnostic testing for the novel coronavirus. A polyester swab that is simpler to manufacture has been approved for use in COVID-19 testing. FDA officials also announced that the swab can be circled around a nostril instead of inserted deep into the throat via a nostril, and that tests can be performed by patients themselves instead of health care providers. Click here to read more.
I’m an endodontist in Fairbanks Alaska. I have been isolating since 16 March but because of the need I am compelled to start seeing emergency and urgent patients starting today the 20th of April. I would very much like to test everyone who comes into my office as well as myself and staff. How do I do this and how do I track the people tested? Can I even get the tests and how much will it cost me to do this?