Field Performance and Public Health Response Using the BinaxNOW™ Rapid Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Antigen Detection Assay During Community-Based Testing

Among 3302 persons tested for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) by BinaxNOW (TM) and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in a community setting, rapid assay sensitivity was 100%/98.5%/89% using RT-PCR cycle thresholds of 30, 35, and no threshold. The specificity was 99.9%. Performance was high across ages and those with and without symptoms. Rapid resulting permitted immediate public health action.

Automated summary

The study conducted testing for SARS-CoV-2 among 3302 individuals in a community setting using BinaxNOW(TM) and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The rapid assay showed high sensitivity and specificity, with consistent performance across different age groups and symptomatic status, allowing for immediate public health action.