Abbott Laboratories’ ID Now test for the SARS-CoV-2 virus made waves when it was introduced thanks to the rapid turnaround time the molecular test promised. But questions about the test’s performance have surfaced several times in recent weeks. The latest criticism comes from a study conducted at the New York University Langone Medical Center, which claims the diagnostic compared poorly against a competitor. However, the U.S. FDA said that it has questions about the swabs and transport media used in connection with the test. As a result, it will stand pat regarding the ID Now’s place in the emergency use authorization (EUA) program.

PARIS – Intrasense SA, of Montpellier, France, has gained CE marking for its CT scanner reading protocol designed for COVID-19. “This major step forward, coming at the same time as U.S. FDA clearance, will allow a true mass rollout of our Myrian XP-Lung system designed for COVID-19,” Nicolas Reymond, CEO of Intrasense, told BioWorld.

HONG KONG – Blockchain technology usually is associated with digital currencies. However, it’s now emerging as an important platform for COVID-19 management. It’s been a focus in China, where a top-down approach is key to driving sectors and technology.

“Our window of opportunity is closing. If we fail to develop a national coordinated response, based in science, I fear the pandemic will get far worse and be prolonged, causing unprecedented illness and fatalities,” Rick Bright, former director of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, said today as he testified at a House subcommittee hearing on the U.S. response to COVID-19.