Pac-12 adds additional 'survelliance' layer of COVID-19 testing

The Pac-12 announced a partnership it says will bring its schools an additional, highly accurate COVID-19 test that will return results in 24 hours.

Produced by Fulgent Genetics, the RT-PCR (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) test is intended to supplement the supplies of weekly PCR tests Pac-12 schools already have acquired on their own and is in addition to the rapid testing the conference secured with Quidel Corporation.

With teams that are in season, Pac-12 schools are expected to use the rapid-result Quidel tests daily and one of the PCR tests weekly. PCR tests will also be used to follow up a positive rapid-result test.

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“RT-PCR is regarded as the gold standard in COVID-19 testing, providing the highest level of sensitivity and specificity," said Brandon Perthuis, Fulgent's chief commercial officer. "We have built technology platforms around our test to make it scalable for the Pac-12, which allows us to deliver results within 24 hours of receipt of the sample for testing. We are excited to partner with the Pac-12 and look forward to helping keep their athletic programs running safely.”

Oregon State senior associate AD Doug Aukerman, who is chairing the Pac-12's COVID-related health initiative committee, said "providing additional resources at the level of what Fulgent Genetics offers is a tremendous addition for our athletics departments and staff as we continue to strive for the most secure and safe environment for our student-athletes’ return to play.”