Could automated, saliva-based PCR testing be the future of COVID-19 surveillance?

In a large-scale study funded by Kings College London, researchers successfully implemented an automated PCR-based testing program for SARS-CoV-2 using saliva samples from asymptomatic students and staff. The system achieved 85% sensitivity and 100% specificity, provided rapid results within eight hours, and offered a cost-effective and scalable approach to community surveillance of COVID-19.