Thai scientists are developing a new COVID-19 test that uses armpit sweat

A less invasive COVID-19 test may be on its way ― using armpit sweat.

Scientists in Thailand are developing a sweat-based mobile virus detector, and a pilot test on shopkeepers at a Bangkok food market was carried out this week, AFP reported.

Chulalongkorn University’s Dr Chadin Kulsing said from samples collected, researchers found people infected with COVID-19 secrete very distinct chemicals.

“We used this finding to develop a device to detect the specific odours produced by certain bacteria in the sweat of COVID-19 patients,” he was quoted saying, adding the test was 95 per cent accurate.

Dr Chadin hopes that this will lead to the rolling out of a more affordable alternative to the more expensive swab tests that require laboratory processing.

It is, however, still in the development stage, and the research behind it is yet to be published or peer-reviewed.

The scientists adapted the device from a piece of equipment that is usually used to detect toxic chemicals in the environment.

Subjects are to place a cotton swab under their arms for 15 minutes before the swab is put in a glass vial and sterilised with ultraviolet rays.

“The technician then draws an appropriate amount of the sample using a suction hose, and pressurises it into the analyser to check the results,” Dr Chadin added.

Sample collection takes 15 minutes and the results are ready in 30 seconds. —  Malay Mail

[ IMAGE SOURCE ]

Recent Posts

WhatsApp Voice Message Transcripts converts voice into text

WhatsApp has introduced a new Voice Message Transcripts feature which allows users to easily convert…

5 hours ago

Every Transaction Could Make You a Monthly Millionaire – Here’s How with Maybank’s MAE

This post is brought to you by Maybank. Unlock more than just transactions with MAE’s…

16 hours ago

Oppo Find X8 series: Launching in Malaysia on 30th November 2024, priced from RM3,699

After making its debut in China late last month, the Oppo Find X8 series has…

20 hours ago

Hyundai Ioniq 9: The brand’s first 3-row electric SUV, offers up to 429hp and 620km of range

Hyundai has officially unveiled the new Ioniq 9 which marked yet another expansion to its…

21 hours ago

BMW Group leads Malaysia’s premium EV segment, long term certainty needed for local assembly

BMW Group remains bullish in its commitment to drive sustainable mobility across the Southeast Asian…

1 day ago

Dongfeng Box Malaysia: First public test drive event is happening on 23 to 24 Nov

After completing its 45,000km road test in Malaysia earlier this year, Dongfeng Box will finally…

2 days ago

This website uses cookies.