Nasopharygeal sample kit containing a paediatric nasal swab and disposable scissors, distributed to healthcare professionals performing a CovidNudge test, DnaNudge Ltd, 2021

Launched commercially in late 2019 after three years in development, the DnaNudge system is a shoebox sized portable laboratory offering on the spot genetic testing, originally used to ‘nudge’ consumers towards healthier choices while food shopping. The technology was swiftly adapted in weeks during March 2020 to provide rapid, lab free COVID 19 testing to identify the presence of SARS-CoV-2 from viral RNA extraction.

The DnaCartridge can also detect the presence of human RNA to eliminate false negatives by control testing for inadequate swabbing. The nose and throat swab is inserted directly into the DnaCartridge – minimising sample handling – and delivers results in just over an hour. The system was implemented in UK hospitals from May 2020. In July 2020, the government ordered 5.8 million of the tests for use in urgent patient care settings as well as non-hospital locations such as care homes and schools.