Are the tests currently in use able to detect variants?

Generally speaking, the diagnostic tests currently in use are working properly. The Ministry of Health recommends the use of molecular tests that are not exclusively based on the S gene.

Antigen tests may be used, but confirmation would require non-rapid antigen tests (laboratory tests) or fluorescence antigen rapid tests (i.e. requiring special detection equipment), which ensure high specificity and sensitivity.

In order to be able to distinguish whether an infection is caused by a variant, a highly specialized test called "sequencing" is required, through which the exact composition of the virus genome is determined. Sequencing is not a test

available to the general public, but is a type of test that is carried out only in specialized public health centers.

Source: 15/02/2021 CIRCULAR LETTER of the Ministry of Health - Update on the use of antigen and molecular tests for the detection of SARS-CoV-2(pdf, 0.38 Mb)