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Comparative evaluation of swabbing sites for Omicron variant detection in PCR testing

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MAC UKHSA Published article

We are pleased to share a recent publication in conjunction with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and insights from MAC Clinical Research Statisticians Ellie Sheppard and Leanne McCabe.

The article explores innovative PCR testing strategies for the Omicron variant, specifically evaluating the effectiveness of different swabbing sites for SARS-CoV-2 detection. The study found that combined nose-and-throat swabs provided the highest sensitivity and viral concentrations, improving testing accuracy. This research is crucial for refining testing protocols and enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of detection, especially as new variants like Omicron continue to emerge.

This work exemplifies our commitment to enhancing healthcare and supporting research advancements to create a safer and healthier future for everyone. We are pleased to have been able to fully support this study by providing Field Operatives to oversee the participants conduct in the service evaluation, preparation of kits to be used for testing, Project Management and Data Management to ensure seamless project delivery and output as well as input from our Biometrics team from study start to completion.

Ellie Sheppard
Statistician
MAC Clinical Research

Ellie Sheppard, Statistician at MAC comments “Contributing to this important public health research on COVID-19 testing has been a rewarding experience, offering the opportunity to work with fascinating data and collaborate on findings that can have a real-world impact.”

Read the full published article here: LINK

At MAC, we are proud to have been supporting the UKHSA in evaluating their in vitro diagnostic devices since 2021. Discover more about our partnership here: LINK

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