In the case of an oropharyngeal swab, should both pharyngeal pillars and tonsils be swabbed? (The BMJ)

Based on the SHERLOCK method, which stands for Specific High-sensitivity Enzymatic Reporter unLOCKing, the kit works by programming a CRISPR molecule to detect the presence of a specific genetic signature of SARS-CoV-2 in nasal swab, nasopharyngeal swab, oropharyngeal swab or bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimen. When the signature is found, the CRISPR enzyme is activated and releases a detectable signal. If the virus’s genetic material is found, a CRISPR enzyme generates a fluorescent glow. (Biospectrum Asia)

A wing of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the VRDL is normally engaged in research of communicable viral diseases like dengue, malaria and works from 10am to 4.30pm. Since it became a COVID-19 diagnostic lab, it functions round the clock, the team working in three shifts running screening and confirmatory tests of oropharyngeal swab samples collected in Madurai, Sivaganga, Virudhunagar and Ramanathapuram districts. (New Indian Express)