"The test, and the device needed to process it, have been approved by authorities in Europe and the US.
In trials on more than 500 patients it accurately detected the virus in more than 97% of cases."
Interesting that it's been CE marked and that the NHS in Scotland, as it doesn't appear to meet the 'Desirable' NHRA TPP requirements (albeit it meets the 'Acceptable' requirements).
I don't see this being a threat to an antigen LFT, given the need for additional kit as well.
"tbh - who gives a monkeys about a bit moisture when you have proven hours of viral protection - some big media publicity will rocket this - headline news"
I presume you're not a clinician having to wear PPE for a long time or a patient being treated by such a clinician...
"Tents and Pods would be the application for me mate."
Imagine this re-engineered for something like Ebola. It would be ideal. You could provide PPE and field equipment that would have in-built anti-viral properties.
"It is the virus in the moisture that is the main problem and whilst it is accepted that such moisture is always going to be a problem with all none ventilated mask, the big difference will be that any moisture in the P2F mask, will be free of the virus for at least 7 hours.
Therefore any moisture being released into the surrounding area of the wearer will be virus free."
I don't think you'll find that's what either PrF or RMS will claim...
The simple fact is the more layers you put into a mask, the more moisture will build up - it's a simple function of respiration. This will reduce the safe useable lifetime of the mask. The antiviral layer will extend that beyond the current 2-3 hours but it won't be up to 7 hours.
Whilst there is a focus on masks at the moment, I see wider long term possibilities for this technology (e.g. gowns, isolation fields tents/pods).
"Bought in at 33p earlier this year - not a huge amount, just £300 odds. Still a nice wee bit of profit.
I thought with the UK Gov having ordered test kits and shown its commitment that perhaps the SP had peaked and now retreating to a simmer where it may remain. By the way, I'm not saying it will simmer, it was just me speculating. I am no expert though.
What are the thoughts of others?"
Hold on! Definitely.
This is a share for long term holders that will more than repay your patience and investment - particularly given the level you got in at.
It's not really my field but I'm lucky to have a range of contacts, one of whom was quite positive about what she could find out about NUvec and the current trials.
Like you, it's one of my 'educated gamble' investments...
"Oxford vaccine news, isn't the antibody test being used in conjunction with it?"
Antibody testing is being used during the clinical trials for the Oxford vaccine (my other half, who is a hospital consultant, is part of the trial and he gets tested each week).
However, that doesn't necessarily mean that they will be used regularly once the vaccine is rolled out for general use (despite what some people claim). Not all vaccines require a test before and/or after vaccination (an example would be the annual 'flu jab). Even if someone has antibodies, that doesn't stop them from being vaccinated.
Until the government publish their formal approach to vaccination, and the associated directions for clinicians, we won't know for sure. They may simply take a 'blanket' approach as they do with other vaccines and inoculate everyone on the relevant cohorts.
Sore throat is actually a good sign (if any symptom can be described as 'good'). Generally you don't get a sore throat with Covid. Anosmia and ageusia are the key things to watch out for - together with a fever.
Hope you're feeling better soon! I recommend a good hot lemon and honey drink, two paracetamol and a large glass of brandy (I'd personally go for a Spanish brandy that has been matured in sherry casks).
"Conventional surgical type masks typically comprise of three layers, with the inner layer acting as a physical barrier to viruses and bacteria. However, they are only recommended for up to two hours of continual use as this layer can become moist and fail, thereby allowing the virus to penetrate though."
23 Oct RNS "These tests confirmed that the coated face mask textile displayed high virucidal activity, meeting the requirements for ISO 18184 certification with more than a 90% kill rate for up to 7 hours, while being benign to healthy mammalian cells (ISO 18184 is the international anti-viral textile standard that measures virucidal antimicrobial activity on textiles and other porous materials)."
So anti-viral activity aside this mask lasts 3.5 times as long as the ones they use now before needing to be replaced."
Careful - you're not comparing like with like. The 18 Sept RNS is making reference to the limits on masks due to moisture build up. Today's RNS is talking about the longevity of the anti-viral function.
The reality is that the new masks will still have an issue with moisture build up - particularly as another layer is effectively being added. So whilst the antiviral properties may last 7 hours, the masks will potentially still need to changed more frequently...
...which works to the benefit of those making the masks!