Doctors could soon be using a saliva test, not a nasal swab, to test for COVID-19.

New research shows saliva testing for COVID-19 is quicker and safer than nasal swabs.

Researchers with the University of Maryland found saliva is better at detecting infection before the onset of symptoms.

They also say saliva testing is safer for patients and health care workers because there's no need for close contact, and patients won't cough or sneeze because of a nasal swab.