Abbott has conducted an assessment of the Omicron variant and are confident their rapid and PCR tests can detect the virus. While the Omicron variant contains mutations to the spike protein, Abbott's rapid and molecular tests – antigen and PCR – do not rely on the spike gene to detect the virus, according to their press release.
Abbott is currently manufacturing more than 100 million COVID-19 rapid and PCR tests a month to help support increased need for testing around the globe.
Through Abbott's Pandemic Defense Coalition, we have a network of research, academic and public health collaborators strategically placed around the world that are actively sequencing viruses to look for the next viral threat including COVID variants. Having this established network allows for the quick sharing of new information and the ability to provide samples quickly – within days rather than the typical weeks or months.
Testing remains a critical part of COVID-19 response and Abbott’s top priority remains making reliable, accessible tests available.
