A consortium of French companies and researchers is at the origin of a first saliva virological test. Called EasyCov, it should be marketed this summer after receiving CE certification. This is a screening that is intended to be simple, more practical and faster. Its application could also seduce Corsica, wishing to apply a device called Green Pass to welcome tourists without danger.
The EasyCov test is the creation of a consortium of French companies and researchers largely based in Montpellier. The latter brings together companies such as Skillcell and Vogo as well as the Inovie group, with approximately 380 laboratories in the territory . We should also mention the Sys2Diag research laboratory, directed by the CNRS. Thomas Hottier, medical biologist co-director of the Inovie group, was interviewed by France Bleu on May 31, 2020:
“ It is a rapid test whose results are known in less than an hour, unlike classic PCR which can take up to 24 hours. »
The expert also reminded that the test is painless. Indeed, the sample is taken under the tongue, so that it can be carried out outside a medical biology laboratory . However, biological validation remains the responsibility of a medical biologist.
The creators of the EasyCov test say they intend to produce it in large quantities during the summer of 2020. However, the test first needs to receive CE certification, justifying its compliance with European Union standards. According to Thomas Hottier, this step could take place around June 15.
Although not residing in Corsica, Thomas Hottier is the son of Anthony Hottier, mayor of the village of Barrettali (Corsica) between 2001 and 2020. Thus, the specialist followed closely the debate around the Green Pass. This is a device to allow tourists to travel to the island after having acquired certainty that these are not affected by Covid-19.
Nothing is certain yet regarding the Green Pass for Corsica. However, Thomas Hottier has already indicated that the EasyCov was compatible with the concept thanks to its speed of action. Indeed, it is a question of carrying out tests on people before taking the plane or the boat. The EasyCov test integrated into the Green Pass device could prevent Corsica from an economic catastrophe by saving the tourist season while avoiding a health catastrophe.
