Rapid Molecular Diagnostic Test to Detect and Differentiate Between Influenza A + B, and A/H5

The avian influenza virus has been detected in various animals, including birds, cattle, and poultry, as well as in humans in the United States, increasing the need for enhancing preparedness in case human-to-human transmission occurs. In response, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a call for innovative diagnostic solutions from industry partners. Currently, the only public health laboratories in the U.S. capable of testing for this virus are the CDC and select state and jurisdictional public health laboratories with access to the CDC A(H5) assay. This limitation creates a significant issue, as these laboratories may lack the capacity to manage a large volume of cases in the event of an H5 epidemic or pandemic. Such a scenario could result in delays in diagnosing and treating individuals, contributing to the further spread of the virus.

Alveo Technologies (Alameda, CA, USA) has developed a portable, easy-to-use molecular detection platform that employs isothermal nucleic acid amplification technology (NAAT) to provide rapid, qualitative results at the point of need. This multiplexed platform can simultaneously detect and differentiate between influenza A, B, and A/H5 from a single sample. Moreover, it can automatically deliver real-time, accurate results through a secure cloud-based portal for analysis and reporting. Alveo’s solution enhances public health surveillance, facilitates early detection and intervention, and strengthens the response to both seasonal influenza and potential A/H5 outbreaks. By decentralizing testing capabilities, Alveo will increase access to critical diagnostics, reduce the strain on centralized laboratories, and enhance pandemic preparedness and response efforts.

Given its proprietary IntelliSense molecular detection technology, Alveo has received a competitive agreement from the CDC to develop a rapid, point-of-need diagnostic to detect and differentiate between Influenza A, B, and A/H5 in humans. This CDC agreement aligns with Alveo’s broader strategy to develop diagnostics for managing global health challenges, food security, and supply chain resilience. The development goals supported by the CDC agreement naturally complement Alveo’s existing product line, leveraging synergies with assays already in development.

“It is gratifying to be selected and enter this agreement to accelerate the development of our point of need diagnostic solutions for H5,” said Shaun Holt, CEO at Alveo. “We are proud to work with CDC to be a part of a national preparedness effort by enabling timely detection and response where it matters most – at the front lines of care.”

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