Remel’s influenza test detects avian flu

Recent analytical-study results were submitted to the FDA and cleared for incorporation into the analytical sensitivity section of the Xpect Flu A&B package insert. Testing was performed in China and concluded in August.

There are many different strains of influenza that circulate globally, but most illness in humans is attributed to three different strains of influenza A (H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2) and influenza B. However, another strain of influenza A, H5N1, or avian flu has received significant media attention since it was first reported in humans in Hong Kong in 1997.

The Xpect Flu A&B test from Remel is a simple, walk-away procedure with less than one minute hands-on time, and it provides accurate results for influenza A and B within 15 minutes.

“Many scientists and industry experts predict that sooner or later there will be a larger outbreak of Avian Flu in the human population,” said Rodney Smith, president of Remel: “A rapid and reliable test like ours allows the physician to quickly identify patients who will benefit from antiviral treatment and establish the proper treatment regimen, which is essential in effectively controlling and preventing influenza.”

According to Remel the Xpect Flu A&B test kit is the only rapid test available with 100% specificity for both influenza A and influenza B. It also has the highest sensitivity for influenza B at 97.8 % and excellent sensitivity for influenza A at 92.2%.