Can't Work from Home: Pooled Nucleic Acid Testing of Laboratory Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Together with protective measures, routine screening for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection helps provide a safe working environment. We evaluated a pooled nucleic acid testing strategy in a research laboratory. It allowed lab activity to be maintained and would save 25 920 person-hours and $1 684 800/year by increasing the margin of safety for returning to work.