DGAP-News

Highlights from SYNLAB Germany | Protection against COVID-19 at work: SYNLAB introduces new PCR pooling test method for companies - Seite 2

Dr Hans-Wolfgang Schultis, Medical Director of SYNLAB Weiden, Germany, and co-developer of the 7-pool method, is convinced of the widespread use of the pooling method: "In view of the high infection rates and virus variants, it is important to carry out regular PCR tests wherever people are in close and regular contact with each other, despite lockdown and restrictions. This is often the case in the workplace. Pooling is generally an efficient method to detect and stop infection chains at an early stage. With our new 7-pool method, we also create a particularly high sensitivity and specificity for the pooling method. Our experience so far has shown that employers as well as employees appreciate this additional protective measure and that large infection outbreaks have already several times been prevented early on through regular, accurate testing. In addition, the application of this screening method is simple in everyday work. "

The pooling method is specifically suitable for regular testing of asymptomatic groups of people, for example in manufacturing companies or closed office spaces. In this context, the vast majority of test results are usually negative, which makes the pooling method particularly efficient. In addition, the logistical requirements are fulfilled to pool samples from people in contact with each other and to quickly detect possible outbreaks of infection.

The pooling method also bypasses the central weak point of rapid antigen tests: it has now been scientifically proven that the use of rapid antigen tests is unsuitable for selective testing of asymptomatic persons. Various international studies as well as SYNLAB's own study show that about 40 percent of infected persons are not detected as virus carriers by rapid antigen tests. This is because rapid antigen tests often only detect infected people with a high viral load, whereas even a low viral load can be enough to infect other people. Accordingly, the much more accurate PCR tests are still the significantly safer and medically more appropriate method to ensure preventive protection.