Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan says that the state will be the first member of a multistate coalition to purchase a large amount of rapid COVID-19 antigen tests.
The Daily Times of Salisbury reported Thursday that the state will buy 250,000 antigen tests made by Becton, Dickinson and Co.
“This is the latest state-of-the-art technology in rapid testing, which will help to slow the spread of COVID-19 and help our state to speed up economic recovery,” Hogan said at a news conference.
Antigen tests can offer results in 15 to 20 minutes. The tests will first be deployed at nursing homes, assisted living facilities and correctional institutions. Hogan said the state is also considering providing the tests for use at college dormitories.
We're making it easier for you to find stories that matter with our new newsletter — The 4Front. Sign up here and get news that is important for you to your inbox.
The purchase comes at a cost of about $8 million, or roughly $30 per test. The tests will be paid for with a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
