Former healthcare head explains why new COVID-19 saliva test could be game-changer in pandemic fight

When it comes to sports returning safely outside of bubble situations, testing protocols will likely need to be strict and involve a high quantity of tests.

If tests are costly, though, it will be tough for schools to continue to spend money testing hundreds of student-athletes, especially in football.

However, former heathcare head Andy Slavitt, who served in the position under Barack Obama’s administration, took to Twitter to share some encouraging news on Saturday. Per Slavitt, a new saliva test could be a game-changer when it comes to fighting the pandemic, and not just for sports.

Here’s what he said in his lengthy thread:

https://twitter.com/ASlavitt/status/1294663073836474368

They decided not to sell a specialized kit (so they didn’t have anyone run out).

They are turning testing from a bespoke suit to a low cost commodity. I’ve been writing about this goal for months.

— Andy Slavitt ?? (@ASlavitt) August 15, 2020

3. The most important reason is because the most important testing feature is CADENCE. How frequently can we test people.

At a $10 test, you can test every day or every couple days. This is even more important than accuracy. But on accuracy…

— Andy Slavitt ?? (@ASlavitt) August 15, 2020

5. This is important because of schools. Universities. Office buildings. For wide testing of asymptomatic people.

They are all getting introduced to the test in the next few weeks.

You can’t spend $100 multiple times/week on a person’s point in time test.

— Andy Slavitt ?? (@ASlavitt) August 15, 2020

7. For all of these reasons Saliva Direct should create millions more in test capacity. Easy to use. High volume. Cheap. Widely available and accurate. https://t.co/2HMZGuzn2W

— Andy Slavitt ?? (@ASlavitt) August 15, 2020

The people who created this test— a special alliance of folks who came together. Run by @YaleEMD and the @NBA with leadership by @robbysikka.

Not only are they not making money, they invested money, time & resources. They are making $0.

— Andy Slavitt ?? (@ASlavitt) August 15, 2020

How we prevent that is our next challenge?

Public pressure and awareness is a part of this. This should be a kick off to a lot of new lower cost high quality tests.

And some testing companies aren’t going to like this.

— Andy Slavitt ?? (@ASlavitt) August 15, 2020

Mass testing with a quick turnaround is just what sports (and society in general) needs. The NBA has worked to help fund the test.

Will we soon have these tests available? It’s an encouraging story to monitor.