Blank sample card (number 8508642067) for SAMBA® II SARS CoV-2 test including fields for sample collection date, patient ID, sample ID, age, Sex (M/F) including a QR code, made by Diagnostics for the Real World Ltd, reference CIP-0085, San Jose, United States, 2020

Each COVID-19 test carried out using a SAMBA® II comes with a card to record data about the person who has given the sample. Included on the card is a QR code and numbered stickers to label samples to help track the test and the results. The sample in a red-capped tube is also attached to the card.

Once a swab is taken, it is transported in a solution which kills the virus very quickly. This means that a laboratory set up or bio-safety cabinet is not needed. Once samples are loaded into the SAMBA® II machine, the remainder of the process is fully automated. Uniquely shaped cartridges contain the reagents necessary for testing. Results are given in two ways – from a visual result using one or three lines – like some pregnancy tests and via a Bluetooth connected device. An integrated camera ensures consistent and accurate results.

Launched in 2014, the SAMBA® II is designed to be used at the point of care – bringing rapid results to people, particularly in the Global South. Originally designed for quick, easy, and reliable HIV and hepatitis C testing are also available. Dr Lee, the inventor of SAMBA® II and her team at Diagnostics for the Real World developed at COVID-19 test in under three months as a response to the global pandemic.