Eurofins Develops Detection Tests for Hantavirus Following Cruise-Related Outbreak
Eurofins Scientific announced on Thursday that its laboratories around the world are developing new diagnostic solutions to support health authorities in the face of a hantavirus outbreak associated with a cruise. The group highlights its existing and developing capabilities to detect the virus.
Diagnostic Capabilities Mobilized in Multiple Countries
According to the press release, Eurofins Viracor (USA) could rapidly develop and validate molecular detection tests for hantavirus based on real-time quantitative PCR and next-generation sequencing (NGS). An NGS test including known strains of hantavirus is currently under development. Eurofins Clinical Diagnostic Spain has diagnostic capabilities to study hantavirus, including detection of the Andes strain, using serological and molecular techniques. Eurofins Biomnis (France) has significant experience in screening for six common strains of hantavirus and collaborates with the French reference center (CNR) as a screening laboratory. Gold Standard Diagnostics Frankfurt offers NovaLisa ELISA tests to detect anti-hantavirus antibodies in human serum or plasma, with results in two hours. The subsidiary also offers veterinary tests including VetBlot Hantavirus.
Context of the Outbreak and Monitoring
As of May 12, eleven cases of hantavirus, including three deaths, have been reported in connection with the outbreak associated with a cruise. The World Health Organization has indicated that an increase in the number of cases is expected but there is 'no sign that we are witnessing the start of a broader epidemic'. Eurofins emphasizes its proven experience in responding to global health epidemics and crises and will continue to actively monitor the development of the outbreak.
