INTERVENTIONAL LOLLI STUDY FAQS
An RT-PCR (reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction) test is performed in the laboratory. This test detects the genetic material (RNA) of the virus.
No. Only the RNA of the virus is kept as part of a reserve sample in order to perform sequencing if necessary.
False positive results are extremely rare but not impossible. PCR has a specificity of almost 100%. However, false positive results can arise, for example, due to contamination of the sample.
Infections with a very low viral load may not be detected. Very low viral loads are also associated with low infectivity at the time of specimen collection.
Yes. The Lolli-Methode was developed and validated at the Institute of Virology, University Hospital Cologne. From a viral load of 1000 copies/ml in the nasopharyngeal swab, the Lolli method can detect SARS-CoV-2 infections with a sensitivity of 95%.00
The saliva test is pleasant to perform and ensures high acceptance among participating students In addition, other tests may not be possible in young children.
This depends on the viral load under consideration. Validation has shown that above a viral load of 1000 copies/ml there is a sensitivity of 95%. Samples above a viral load of 106 copies/ml were detected 100% in a study with 120 infected individuals.
Yes. PCR pool tests performed work very well. Since the swabs are pooled in a pre-set volume of liquid, the dilution effect is low even with large pool sizes.
We recommend making sure that at least 30 minutes pass between taking food or drink or cleaning the teeth and taking a saliva sample
Regular testing does not guarantee that infections will not occur. However, it can help to detect infections at an early stage. Appropriate measures can then be taken to prevent further spread of infection.
Yes, this can happen. The respective health department is responsible for quarantine regulations. Quarantine always serves to protect other, healthy people and is never imposed without reason.
Yes, it has proven practicable for the educators of a school group to add their swab to the group pool. In addition, there is an inter-group pool for each School (e.g. for the School staff).
Asymptomatic courses of SARS-CoV-2 infection occur particularly in children and adolescents. These would be overlooked if only “suspected cases” were tested.
We do not expect any complications to arise during specimen collection. However, specimen collection may only take place under supervision and the swabs should be held by the supervising persons during licking to prevent swallowing.