Lex Fridman Podcast #146 – Michael Mina: Rapid Testing, Viruses, and the Engineering Mindset
Dec 19, 2020
Michael Mina, an esteemed immunologist and physician at Harvard, is renowned for his pioneering work on rapid COVID-19 testing. In this engaging conversation, he discusses the critical role of rapid testing in managing pandemics and its potential to empower individuals. Mina delves into the intricate relationship between viruses and society, the engineering approaches needed in public health, and how innovative technologies can enhance our understanding of viral behaviors. He also addresses the balance between data collection and personal privacy in tackling health crises.
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Inflated Test Costs
- Rapid tests cost under $2 to produce but are sold at inflated prices because the FDA authorizes them as medical devices.
- This allows companies to charge insurance, incentivizing higher prices and lower production volumes.
Test Types and Accuracy
- Beyond PCR and antibody tests, rapid antigen tests detect viral proteins, indicating active infection.
- PCR tests can detect non-infectious viral RNA remnants, leading to "late positives" and unnecessary isolation.
Test Recommendations
- Consider the BinaxNOW test, a simple, user-friendly antigen test with high accuracy.
- Use the Detect test, an RNA test, for confirmation due to its orthogonality and sensitivity.