Saliva-based COVID-19 test approved by Health Canada could reduce discomfort of nasal swab – CBC
Test received Health Canada approval, but doctor says he wants to see more data
Aug 14, 2022
Early during the pandemic, Neil Saxvy’s son Matthew broke his arm and had to go to the hospital.
Because of COVID-19, he needed a PCR test, which meant an eye-watering swab high up in his nostrils. The young boy did not enjoy the experience.
“Ever since then he’s wanted nothing to do with the test,” Saxvy said.
It’s made testing — which occurs pretty regularly for kids in school settings over the course of years-long pandemic — more of a hassle.
But on Saturday, the entire Saxvy family, including wife Anita and daughter Leah, did a much less invasive PCR test in Toronto. This one involved spitting into a cup and feeding their saliva into a machine.
“Pretty simple,” Saxvy said, “as long as you get enough sample.”
