Saliva-based COVID-19 test could be available in Canada this fall

Health officials say a saliva-based COVID-19 test could be available in Canada this fall.

Public Health Ontario’s chief of microbiology and laboratory science says saliva collection will make it easier to detect infection.

Dr. Vanessa Allen says it will also be useful for children and others unable to tolerate a nasal swab.

The tests would be lab-based and use the same molecular analysis to detect COVID-19 in a nasal sample.

Experts say, at the collection stage, saliva-based detection could preserve high-demand health resources and supplies, such as personal protective equipment and nurses.