In May 2022, InBios International, Inc., a leading developer of point-of-care testing solutions for healthcare providers and patients, announced that it would be extending the expiration dates of its COVID-19 rapid tests. These tests, which were originally authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under emergency use authorization (EUA), had been designed to help quickly detect the presence of COVID-19 in communities across the country.
The move was aimed at providing hospitals, clinics, and other medical institutions with an additional 3-month shelf life on their in-bios rapid tests, boosting their usage even as the supply chain crisis persists. The extend expiration dates are based on the fact that the tests retain up to 99.97% of their original accuracy for a minimum of 28 days. This ensures that healthcare professionals continue to receive reliable results from these tests to aid in the effective management of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to InBios, the extended shelf life will also allow for more efficient distribution and use of the rapid tests. Hospitals, for instance, will now be able to store tests for a longer period, which can be particularly beneficial during peak seasons when demand is higher. Additionally, tests that may have been sitting on shelves for an extended period may now be cleared for immediate use, reducing wait times and ensuring that healthcare providers have access to timely diagnostic information.
This update follows several other announcements from various manufacturers of point-of-care tests, including Abbott and DiaSorpio, that have also extended their product lifespans. These actions collectively highlight the critical need for continued innovation and flexibility in the development and production of COVID-19 testing solutions. With the continued emergence of new variants and the ongoing challenges posed by supply chain disruptions, manufacturers are eager to deliver accurate and accessible testing options that can help in the fight against the spread of COVID-19.
However, despite the extended shelf lives, there are still several considerations that healthcare providers and individuals should be mindful of. For example, it is important to follow proper storage and handling guidelines to ensure that tests remain accurate and effective. Additionally, since the expiration dates are based on specific test lot numbers, it is crucial to verify the accuracy and lot number of any in-bios COVID-19 test before using it.
In summary, the extension of InBios COVID-19 test expiration dates is a positive development that provides further assurance for the availability of these vital testing solutions. By doubling down on research and development, manufacturing, and distribution, manufacturers are working tirelessly to ensure that accurate and reliable diagnostic information is available when and where it is needed most. As health officials and medical professionals continue to navigate the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, the extended shelf lives of these tests serve as a critical tool in the effort to control the spread of COVID-19 and protect public health.
