Evaluation of Rapid Antigen Detection Kits for Detection of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529

Background Currently, there is a lack of studies evaluating rapid antigen detection (RAD) kits to detect SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529. Objective To evaluate the analytical sensitivity of seven RAD kits to detect SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529. Study design The analytical sensitivity was determined by means of limit of detection (LOD). A dilution set using a respiratory specimen collected from a COVID-19 patient infected with SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 was prepared. RT-PCR was used as a reference method. Results The LOD results showed that all seven RAD kits had comparable analytical sensitivity for detection of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529. Conclusions The RAD kits selected in the current study may be used for first-line screening of the recently emerged SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529.