Disposable sampling swab of the type used with SAMBA® II SARS-CoV-2 tests including a nose and throat swab, made by Miraclean Technology Co., Ltd, lot number 2021010008, P/N9600, manufactured in Shezhen, China, manufactured 5 January 2021

A nose and throat swab is the start of many COVID-19 tests. Once taken, the swab 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.