'No-swab' saliva test for coronavirus piloted in Britain

iStock [illustration]

A "no-swab" saliva test is being trialled in the UK to look at the potential of making it easier for people to take coronavirus tests at home.

The pilot, led by Southampton University, will involve participants putting their saliva into a sample pot, with results delivered in 48 hours.

More than 14,000 doctors, other essential key workers, university staff and members of their households will participate in the trial that will run for four weeks.

"This trial will also help us learn if routine, at-home testing could pick up cases of the virus earlier," explained Health Secretary Matt Hancock.

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