 Genomic surveillance of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has become increasingly important during the current pandemic. However, recent changes in testing practices have created challenges for surveillance efforts. In particular, the widespread adoption of rapid antigen tests may result in gaps in future monitoring efforts if not addressed. To address this issue, researchers compared the results of RTQ-PCR and viral genome sequencing using samples from positive Binax NOW COVID-19 antigen card swabs with those obtained from nasopharyngeal NP swabs used for nucleic acid amplification testing. The results showed that swabs obtained from antigen cards were comparable in performance to samples from NP swabs, suggesting that they can be used as an alternative to NP swabs in outpatient clinics or other settings where rapid antigen tests are commonly used. This finding suggests that genomic surveillance can be expanded to these settings, potentially enabling more comprehensive monitoring of the virus. This article was authored by safe old Dean Hasuna, Alexa Trujillo, Soba Ali, and others. We are article.tv, links in the description below.