MATERIALS AND METHODS
Participants
This study was reviewed and approved by the Ethics Committee of Anhui Medical University. Forty-one patients with written informed consent volunteered to have SARS-CoV-2 tests and provide data for analysis.
Specimen with Nasal Swab
A nasal swab is collected as described in the manufacturer’s instructions. Carefully insert the swab tip into one nostril about 1-2 cm deep and rub the insides of each nostril in a complete circle at least 5 times.
Specimen with Phlegm Swab
Specimen of phlegm is collected by holding the breath for 2-3 seconds. Use stomach muscles to forcefully expel the air, avoiding a hacking cough or merely clearing the throat. Expel mucus out of the lungs by a deep cough to clean plastic support. Dip the swab into the liquid of phlegm.
Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test
Rapid antigen test is carried out as described in the manufacturer’s instructions (WANITA, Biohit Healthcare, and Biouhan). Insert the swab tip into the liquid of the specimen collection tube containing the sample extraction buffer. Mix vigorously by rolling the swab tip at least 6 times on the bottom and sides of the tube. Hold the swab tip for 1 minute in the collection tube. Squeeze the swab tip several times from the tube wall releasing as much liquid from the swab as possible. The liquid in the collection tube now is an antigen sample. Add 3 drops of the above-collected antigen into the sample well and read the result after 15 minutes.
SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (PCR Test)
PCR test was performed by the third-party Hefei Hehe Medical Laboratory. The patient went to the specimen collection site and a mouth or nasal swab was collected by the professional personnel for a single nucleic acid PCR test. The test result was uploaded to the Alipay app.