Lab-in-a-van: Rapid SARS-CoV-2 testing response with a mobile laboratory

Authors:

• Ballard, Susan A
• Graham, Maryza
• David, Debra
• Hoang, Tuyet
• Donald, Angela
• Sait, Michelle
• Isles, Nicole
• Matlock, Amelia
• Yallop, Sarah
• Bek, Mark
• Howden, Benjamin P
• Stinear, Timothy P

Details:

eBioMedicine, Volume 79, 2022-05-31

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Background High testing rates and rapid contact tracing have been key interventions to control COVID-19 in Victoria, Australia. A mobile laboratory (LabVan), for rapid SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics, was deployed at sites deemed critical by the Victorian State Department of Health as part of the response. We describe the process of design, implementation, and performance benchmarked against a central reference laboratory. Methods A BSL2 compliant laboratory, complete with a class II biological safety cabinet, was built within a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Panel Van. Swabs were collected by on-site collection teams, registered using mobile internet-enabled tablets and tested using the Xpert® Xpress SARS-CoV-2 assay. Results were reported remotely via HL7 messaging to Public Health Units. Patients with negative results were automatically notified by mobile telephone text messaging (SMS). Findings A pilot trial of the LabVan identified a median turnaround time (TAT) from collection to reporting of 1:19 h:mm (IQR 0:18, Range 1:03–18:32) compared to 9:40 h:mm (IQR 8:46, Range 6:51–19:30) for standard processing within the central laboratory. During deployment in nine rural and urban COVID-19 outbreaks the median TAT was 2:18 h:mm (IQR 1:18, Range 0:50–16:52) compared to 19:08 h:mm (IQR 5:49, Range 1:36–58:52) for samples submitted to the central laboratory. No quality control issues were identified in the LabVan. Interpretation The LabVan is an ISO15189 compliant testing facility fully operationalized for mobile point-of-care testing that significantly reduces TAT for result reporting, facilitating rapid public health actions. Funding This work was supported by the Department of Health, Victoria State Government, Australia.