Patient testing for COVID-19 is underway in Middlesex County, with health care workers using a new saliva test developed by Rutgers University. The test was recently approved by federal officials.

The testing is not yet open to the public. First responders, medical professionals and those with appointments were tested on Wednesday.

The test works similarly to the saliva collection method one may use to investigate their family’s history. The test was developed through a joint-venture between Accurate Diagnostic Labs and Rutgers University.

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“In this kit, there is a funnel and we’re going to take the funnel and spit into [it],” says Accurate Diagnostic general manager Nicholas Melchiorre.

Test results are typically available in 24-48 hours. The test is also much safer for health care professionals and saves them from having to use gloves, masks and other protective equipment used to conduct previous tests.

Once the program is open to the general public, residents will be able to make appointments through the Middlesex County website and with a medical professional.