Coronavirus - COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) Testing

Cinnaminson, NJ, December 16^th, 2020

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is utilizing quantitative RT-PCR technology to test for the COVID-19 virus in air, swab and wastewater samples. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that COVID-19 is primarily transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets. When someone with COVID-19 coughs, sneezes, or speaks, these droplets are released, and infectious droplets can be inhaled, or they can land in the noses or mouths of those nearby. The CDC also states that respiratory droplets can land on hands, surfaces, and objects around the person when they speak or cough. In addition to air sample analysis for COVID-19, air sampling equipment is also available now at EMSL.

---

EMSL is also accepting environmental swab samples to detect for the COVID-19 virus. Recent studies suggest that the SARS-CoV-2 virus may remain viable and infective on surfaces for hours to days, depending on the surface’s material type (fabric, tile, steel, etc.). Thorough cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces are recommended by the CDC and believed to be essential in preventing the spread of infection. The presence or absence of the viral genetic material on environmental surfaces can now be directly tested with EMSL’s new SARS-CoV-2 molecular-based test and used to demonstrate effectiveness of cleaning protocols.

---

Recent waste-water studies indicate that testing untreated wastewater for SARS-CoV-2 is an important epidemiological tool. EMSL offers the IDEXX Water SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR Test for wastewater samples. The IDEXX method is a highly sensitive RT-qPCR test that is designed to detect the 2019-nCoV_N1 and 2019-nCoV_N2 regions of the virus, the same virus regions targeted during the analysis of environmental swab and air samples. The waste-water SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test protocol has been validated by IDEXX and features comprehensive quality control procedures to ensure consistent results.

In addition, since environmental samples frequently contain RT-qPCR inhibiting substances found in dirt, soil and dust that can affect the qPCR reaction performance, EMSL applies a proprietary nucleic acid (NA) extraction method to every sample. This will ensure the removal of any RT-qPCR inhibitors, as well as ensure the accurate detection of the target viral RNA.

For more information on SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) by RT-qPCR analysis, please visit our webpage: http://bit.ly/3nrUPZe. For further information and pricing, contact EMSL at 1-800-220-3675 or visit www.EMSL.com to view a list of all laboratory services provided.


About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with 46 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA-LAP, LLC (AIHA-LAP, LLC EMLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC IHLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.