Wearable nasal and respiratory technology developer Rhinomed Limited (ASX:RNO) says studies continue to generate data that supports its Rhinoswab as the preferred sampling method for diagnosis of upper respiratory disease such as SARSCoV-2.
The Rhinoswab is a novel sampling technology that radically improves the sample collection process. Rhinoswab makes sampling easy, comfortable and more acceptable and can be self administered. Existing studies have established that eight out 10 people prefer the Rhinsowab over the traditional nasal swab.
In addition, previously published data indicate that the Rhinoswab captures a statistically significant larger sample size than traditional nasal swabs.
Rhinoswab works with existing pathology workflows and equipment, and is equivalent in cost with US and European swabs.
A new trial at St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne will seek to build on existing data that validates that the Rhinoswab as a superior method for sampling of upper respiratory diseases including SARSCoV-2, RSV, Influenza A and B.
The trial has two key objectives:
1. Determine if users consider the Rhinoswab a more comfortable and convenient method for sample collection and,
2. Compare the sensitivity, specificity and other measures of PCR test performance of the Rhinoswab compared to the traditional swab and saliva.
The traditional nasal swab is the current gold standard in sampling for upper respiratory disease, despite the well established issues with patient reported pain and discomfort and the lack of consistency of application. These factors can significantly impact the specificity and sensitivity of a test result.
Rhinomed has received Human Research Ethics Committee approval to commence the clinical trial at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne.
The trial will investigate:
1. The laboratory test performance of the Rhinoswab compared with the current standard of care CTDN swab and saliva collection
2. The comfort and preference of Rhinoswab compared to the CTDN swab and saliva collection
3. If laboratory handling of Rhinoswab is equivalent to the CTDN swab and saliva collection.
Rhinomed CEO, Michael Johnson, said SARS-CoV-2 testing will be a part of our lives for some time to come.
The Rhinoswab provides an easier, more standardised and comfortable sample collection method to encourage people to get tested, more often,” he said.
“There is clear evidence that vaccination and mass high frequency testing are the key tools we can use to keep our community safe – not just from SARS-CoV -2 but from all upper respiratory diseases including RSV and Influenza.
“The Rhinoswab is a more effective and preferred method for testing people. We are thrilled to be working with the St Vincent’s as we continue to generate important data that support the widespread use of the Rhinoswab across the healthcare sector.”
Dr Amy Crowe, Principal Investigator, said testing will continue to be an important part of the public health response to the covid pandemic.
“We need to continue striving to make testing as accurate, comfortable and convenient as possible.” The trial includes 250 participants and will be conducted over 30-50 days.
“The trial will also help assess the use of Rhinoswab for other respiratory diseases. The study will recruit up to 10 staff to evaluate Rhinoswab against laboratory handling, process and workflow requirements.”
