Portable tests and tongue swabs could widen access to TB diagnosis

The World Health Organization has recommended diagnostic approaches intended to bring tuberculosis testing closer to the communities that need it.

Announced on World TB Day, the guidance includes portable tests that can run on batteries and return results in under an hour. WHO says their lower cost could help health systems expand molecular testing beyond centralized laboratories.

The recommendations also cover tongue swabs for adults and adolescents unable to produce sputum, and pooled sputum testing when resources are severely constrained. The aim is to reduce delays between seeking care, diagnosis and treatment while strengthening wider testing networks.