Gujarat-based global medtech company Meril has received the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) approval for its self-use Rapid Antigen Test for COVID-19, CoviFind. The CoviFind test delivers results swiftly, providing accurate results in just 15 minutes. Additionally, the test does not have any specific storage or refrigeration requirements, thus driving ease and convenience in distribution.

The test is priced at Rs 250 and will be made available as an affordable single-pack, with additional purchase options including a pack of 3, 5 and 25 tests. Each test kit is equipped with testing materials including a test device, one sterile nasal swab and a pre-filled buffer tube with a cap. 

The nasal swab offers a less invasive testing option and enables quick and convenient specimen collection while reducing discomfort, improving testing compliance. Nasal swabs only have to be inserted 2 to 4 centimetres (cms) into a patient’s nose, as compared to the alternative nasopharyngeal swab that needs to be inserted 8 to 10 cms into the nasopharynx for adults.  

The self-use test is to be used alongside the company’s official home testing mobile application, ‘CoviFind App,’ which will be available to download from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store once the product hits the market. 

Meril will also run a dedicated website for direct orders of the test kit by individuals and institutions. A special 25-test kit option is available for institutions, corporations, schools and other large orders. 

Sanjeev Bhatt, Sr Vice President, Corporate Strategy, Meril, said, “Meril’s CoviFind test will facilitate early detection, isolation, treatment and contact tracing. This will limit the spread of infections, contributing to the nation’s ongoing efforts to quell the second wave of the pandemic."