The Pros and Cons of Pooling Covid-19 Tests

Slowing the spread of the novel coronavirus requires testing — lots of it. The need is particularly acute for this virus because many may be asymptomatic and unknowingly spreading it to others. Though millions of people around the world have been tested, supplies aren’t keeping up with demand. One innovative approach, called pool testing, would multiply the reach of existing capacity. Few countries have adopted the idea so far.