Key considerations for SARS-CoV-2 antigen RDT implementation

This course covers the major elements that must be considered before, during and after the implementation of antigen-detecting rapid diagnostic tests (Ag-RDTs) in order to ensure effective implementation and greater public health benefits.

Photo credits: WHO / FIND

Course information

Overview: This course is based on the 'SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Detecting Rapid Diagnostic Tests, An implementation guide', released in December 2020, and is complementary to the policy guidance issued by the World Health Organization (WHO). It provides an overview of the major elements that must be considered before, during and after the implementation of antigen-detecting rapid diagnostic tests, or antigen-RDTs, for SARS-CoV-2 in order to support the implementation of RDT testing across the diagnostic network. This course is aimed at laboratory stakeholders, notably those involved in planning at central level but also other health stakeholders as well as all relevant professionals tasked with the implementation of RDT testing, including ministries of health, donors, public and private organisations.

Learning objectives: By the end of this course, you should be able to:

• describe testing principles of antigen based rapid diagnostic testing for SARS-CoV-2 and their advantages and limitations;
• explain the role of Ag-RDTs as part of the COVID-19 diagnostic testing strategy;
• list and describe the key implementation considerations for integrating SARS-CoV-2 Ag-RDT testing into a national response plan.

Course duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Certificates: A Record of Achievement will be issued to participants who receive at least 80% on the post-test. Participants who receive a Record of Achievement can also download an Open Badge for this course. Click here to learn how.

Speakers:

Dr. Céline Barnadas,
Laboratory Technical Officer,
Country Readiness Strengthening, Health Emergencies Programme,
World Health Organization Headquarters

Dr. Natacha Milhano
Laboratory Consultant,
Country Readiness Strengthening, Health Emergencies Programme,
World Health Organization Headquarters

Dr. André Trollip,
Senior Technical Officer,
FIND, the global alliance for diagnostics

Rachel Achilla
Technical Officer Laboratory,
Emergency, Preparedness and Response Program,
WHO Regional Office for Africa

Ms. Devy M. Emperador
Pandemic Preparedness Team,
Global Health Security and Emerging Threats Programme,
FIND, the global alliance for diagnostics

The development of this course was co-funded by the European Commission’s Foreign Policy Instrument and the US CDC.

The views expressed herein can in no way be taken to reflect the official opinion of these institutions.

In collaboration with FIND, the global alliance for diagnostics.