A new approach to testing for coronavirus (COVID19) is to be trialled by researchers here at the University of Leicester, which could determine whether a person is infectious or not – even before symptoms are present. If successful, the approach could greatly simplify large scale screening for the virus and curb the spread of the disease.

Researchers will use simple, low cost face masks which are adapted using 3D printed strips that can trap exhaled microbes whilst the mask is worn for 30 minutes.

Using the adapted mask to screen for coronavirus could allow very large groups to be checked at once, potentially helping to curb the spread of the virus and avoiding long stays in quarantine.

For further details see: https://le.ac.uk/news/2020/february/28-coronavirus-masks