Test for Covid Variants

Summary

The requester asked Manx Care to explain the method used to differentiate SARS-CoV-2 variants from standard positive tests. Manx Care responded by providing a link to the specific RT-PCR kit documentation and noting that further testing is sent to Public Health England.

Key Facts

• Manx Care uses the Certest New VIASURE SARS-CoV-2 Variants I & II RT-PCR Kits for variant testing.
• Further testing, if required, is sent to PHE Colindale (Public Health England, Colindale Laboratory).
• The request was received on 30 August 2021 and responded to on 14 September 2021.
• The response was classified as 'All information sent'.
• The requester was advised to quote reference number 1968493 in future communications.

Data Disclosed

• 1968493
• 2021-08-30
• 2021-09-14
• 14th September 2021
• 30th August 2021
• IM4 4R
• (01624) 650 000
• 2 pages
• 1 document

Original Request

Pls provide the method used to test for the 'variants' of SARS COV2? Ie pls explain how the test for SARS COV2 is used to explain how a variant is differentiated from a simple positive test for SARS COV2? Thx

Data Tables (1)

Full Response Text

Manx Care Noble’s Hospital, Strang Braddan, Isle of Man IM4 4R (01624) 650 000

Our ref: 1968493 14th September 2021

Dear ###

We write further to your request which was received on 30th August 2021 and which states:

"Pls provide the method used to test for the 'variants' of SARS COV2? Ie pls explain how the test for SARS COV2 is used to explain how a variant is differentiated from a simple positive test for SARS COV2? Thx"

Our Response A full explanation of the method we use and how a variant is differentiated from a simple positive can be found on www.certest.es/New VIASURE SARS-CoV-2 Variants I & II RT- PCR Kits Any further testing if needed is sent to PHE Colindale (Public Health England, Colindale Laboratory) Please quote the reference number 1968493 in any future communications.

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I will now close your request as of this date.