US approves first saliva-based coronavirus test

ANKARA 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization of the first saliva-based coronavirus test as the country reported the highest virus-related deaths in the world.

The announcement was made on Monday by New Jersey-based Rutgers University.

The new saliva collection method, which was developed in partnership with Utah-based company Spectrum Solutions and Accurate Diagnostic Labs (ADL), will allow for broader population screening than the current method of nose and throat swabs, the university said in a statement.

Calling the impact of this approval significant, Andrew Brooks, the chief operating officer and director of technology development