Testing program
Human testing or screening involves the direct identification of infected individuals using authorized medical devices. Testing can be represented in the model as a reduction factor on the background infection rate (i.e., the probability that an infected individual gains access to the space). Testing and screening programs vary in terms of testing strategy. (See examples below.) Programs also vary according to the sensitivity and specificity of the test or instrument, frequency (cadence) or extensiveness of the tested population, sample types, portion of the population to be tested, location of test, and time to generate results.
If a testing program was selected in the user inputs, it is represented by the selection “On” on the simulation parallel coordinates plot. This input then allows the user to toggle “Off” the initial testing program. If no testing program was selected on the initial setup, the input “On” defaults to a once-every-three-days antigen testing program, applicable to unvaccinated personnel only.
Testing technology
Testing types in the marketplace include Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Loop-Mediated Amplification (LAMP), Antigen (Ag), and Antibody (IgM and/or IgG) tests. PCR and LAMP tests are also referred to as Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests as they directly identify genetic markers of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. PCR tests are generally the most specific and sensitive but are more expensive and complicated than rapid antigen tests. The ParticleOne platform allows for the input of different testing technologies (e.g., PCR or Antigen). The risk reduction of complex, custom testing may be utilized in the model. Such programs may feature multiple testing technologies, applicable to certain groups in a population, or have unusual cadence. Contact support to discuss.
Program type
Several strategies of testing programs are commonplace in the market and can be approximated in the software. Note: LAMP and Antibody tests are not currently supported by the software.
Regular
A fixed “Regular” population of known identities (e.g., schools, factories, offices), with daily entries and exits back into an uncontrolled (home) environment. Or a fixed “Regular” population of known identities (e.g., sports tournaments, mining operations, remote communities) that will enter and live/work in a protected bubble for an extended time and access is carefully controlled with a single point of entry to maximize the integrity of the bubble. Regular, “cadenced” antigen and/or PCR testing of prioritized individuals offers reasonable monitoring with minimal disruption.
One-time
Different groups of people occupy a shared “One-time” or irregular pass-through of a space for a limited time each day (e.g., travellers at airports or transportation networks, hotels). Population identity may be known or unknown, but there is no permanent occupancy. The goal is to limit transmission during the pass-through period but balance the intensity of testing to ensure high throughput. This strategy relies primarily on rapid antigen or antibody testing at access control, as a reasonable compromise between accuracy and through-put. For pass-through testing deployments, only a “One time” cadence may be selected. Certain testing programs may warrant custom development. Contact support to discuss.
Testing cadence
The overall effectiveness of testing programs varies significantly with the frequency of testing. High frequency of testing helps identify pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals in a timely manner, identifying positive individuals who might otherwise remain unidentified by a single test. The software provides several inputs for frequency of testing: one-time, daily, or every 2, 3 or 4 days.
Testing for unvaccinated only
Many organizations are returning to work with a model that requires vaccination or regular testing for unvaccinated occupants. Select this option if a testing program is for unvaccinated occupants only.