3 What are the advantages of RATs?

sample, carrying the antigen-conjugated antibody complexes, will be recognised by the anti-analyte antibody

at the test line (‘T’ line) causing illumination of the ‘T’ line (Figure 3). The control line (‘C’ line), will

illuminate when its embedded antibodies bind with both bound and unbound conjugated antibodies (Figure

3). The ‘C’ line functions as a test validation to ensure that there is proper liquid flow from the proximal end

to the distal end of the test strip (Koczula & Gallota, 2016). The absorbent pad at the distal end of the testing

strip is designed to promote capillary action, drawing the liquid sample across the test strip, collecting it, and

preventing backflow of liquid sample to the detection zone (Figure 3).

The key advantages of RAT over RT-PCR are (1) simplicity of use; (2) convenience; (3) cost; and (4) rapidity

in producing a result (OECD, 2020).

▪ Simplicity factor: The test instructions for RAT are generally straight-forward and thus, it can be easily

performed by a layperson.

▪ Convenience factor: RAT, unlike RT-PCR, is designed in a way that all the required reagents are

contained within a small and portable test kit. The RAT can be self-administered and can be undertaken

by most people without clinical input.

▪ Cost factor: RATs do not require specialised laboratory techniques and have a relatively low

development and production cost. In New Zealand (NZ), the average cost of a standard RAT ranges

from NZ$ 6 to NZ$ 19 per test kit (Keane, 2022) which is considerably cheaper than the cost of RT-

PCR at NZ$ 120-180 per test (NZ Government, 2022).

▪ Speed factor: A typical RAT can produce results in under 30 minutes. The rapidity of RAT in

producing results has the potential toovercome bottlenecks at laboratoriesand increase testing capacity

enabling faster identification and isolation of positive cases. These factors are crucial in informing

clinical and public health decisions regarding the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission of in the

community (OECD, 2020).