XpresSpa said its testing service XpresCheck is adding rapid testing for COVID-19 at both John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) this week.
The addition of the Abbot ID Now test that can product results in 13 minutes represents an expansion of XpresCheck’s COVID-19 testing options, which already included the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Test and Blood Antibody Test.
Rapid testing will also be available at all future XpresCheck locations after opening.
“We believe rapid COVID-19 testing at airports can play a major role in slowing the virus spread and decreasing the risk of new community outbreaks linked to travel as cases continue to rise throughout many states,” said Doug Satzman, XpresSpa Group CEO. “Having a rapid test inside the airport immediately upon travel could also eliminate the need for a full 14-day quarantine in states where that applies.”
XpresCheck is already working with major airlines to support creation of potential air bridges between U.S. cities and international destinations, including but not limited to New York and London.
XpresCheck is also looking at the development of Health Passport Apps which would link COVID-19 test results from its partnered labs directly to patients. Passengers could show their test results through these apps to airlines and destinations to ensure a hassle-free entry and avoid quarantines, where applicable.
The Abbot ID NOW COVID-19 test has not been FDA cleared or approved but has been authorized by the FDA under an emergency use authorization for use by authorized laboratories and patient care settings.
