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Real-time PCR kit differentiates Alpha, Beta and Gamma variants

BD and CerTest Biotec have announced the CE mark for a molecular test that can detect and distinguish between the Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351) and Gamma (P.1) SARS-CoV-2 variants.

VIASURE SARS-CoV-2 Variant Real Time PCR Detection Kit for BD MAX can be used as a combined test with VIASURE SARS-CoV-2 (N1+N2) Real Time PCR Detection Kit for BD MAX, or as a reflex test to run variant identification on a SARS-CoV-2-positive sample.

“The SARS-CoV-2 virus has shown rapid mutation, and the ability to monitor variants that have the potential for increased severity or transmissibility is a critical tool in the fight against this virus,” said Fernand Goldblat, vice president and general manager of Integrated Diagnostic Solutions for BD in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. “Along with sequencing, diagnostic screening assays are an important part of the strategy to identify, differentiate and contain variants of concern.”

Nelson Fernandes, managing director of CerTest BioTec, added: “The VIASURE SARS-CoV-2 (N1+N2) Real Time Detection Kit for BD MAX and VIASURE SARS-CoV-2 Variant Real Time PCR Detection Kit for BD MAX are available with three alternatives for specimen collection: nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal and saliva. Since the same single specimen can be used to run both assays to detect SARS-CoV-2 and test for its variants, the system provides a comprehensive solution for SARS-CoV-2 testing.”

The test snaps into the test-specific position on the BD MAX ExK TNA extraction strip, supplied by BD.

The BD MAX System, a molecular diagnostic platform, is widely used in hundreds of laboratories across Europe. Each unit can return results in two to three hours and is capable of analysing hundreds of samples over a 24-hour period. The new variant detection assay is part of a robust COVID-19 testing solution on the BD MAX System, which also includes the ability to run asymptomatic individuals using BD SARS-CoV-2 Reagents for BD MAX System and test saliva samples with both BD and VIASURE kits.

www.bd.com

www.certest.es.

 

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Upcoming Events

Pathology Horizons 2024

MacDonald Bath Spa Hotel, Bath
18-20 April, 2024

Diagnostics North East Conference 2024

The Catalyst, Newcastle upon Tyne
19 April, 2024

ECCMID 2024 - European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

Fira Gran Via, 08038 Barcelona, Spain
27-30 April 2024

British Society for Microbial Technology Annual Microbiology Conference

UK Health Security Agency, Colindale, London
2 May 2024

EQA Reports: Interpreting Key Information & Troubleshooting Tips

ONLINE - Zoom
Thursday 16th May 2024

Participants’ Meeting: UK NEQAS Immunology, Immunochemistry & Allergy

Sheffield Hallam University, City Campus, Howard Street, Sheffield
24th May 2024

Access the latest issue of Pathology In Practice on your mobile device together with an archive of back issues.

Download the FREE Pathology In Practice app from your device's App store

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