Improved sensitivity using a dual target, E and RdRp assay for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection: Experience at a large NHS Foundation Trust in the UK

Abstract

Extensive testing by real time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) has been key to clinical decision-making, epidemiological analysis and policy development during the current severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Optimising the sensitivity and specificity of SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing is of particular importance in order to avoid potentially harmful decisions resulting from inaccurate results.