The novel coronavirus COVID-19 has people on edge. The markets are tanking, schools are closing, Tom Hanks and his wife tested positive and sports leagues are suspending games.

There is a bit of good news on the testing front, however. The Cleveland Clinic has developed a COVID-19 test that allows the hospital to get test results back within a day, as opposed to the two to seven days required for tests sent outside the lab.

A new coronavirus test

According to Fox8 News, the new test is being validated in order to enable main-campus testing instead of sending swabs to an outside lab to obtain test results. Scientists are currently assessing the accuracy of the Clinic’s tests, and they’re due to begin within the next week, a hospital spokesperson told the news outlet.

“[The clinic] developed the test in NINE days, I repeat nine,” Andrea R MD, a retired ER doctor, tweeted last night. “Scientists worked 24/7 once the CDC gave them the okay on 3/2.”

How to protect yourself

In the meantime, be vigilant. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) released the following guidelines for how to protect yourself from the COVID-19:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
  • Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily
  • If surfaces are dirty, clean them

See Also: 7 science-based strategies to cope with coronavirus anxiety

•March 12, 2020