Specialist molecular diagnostics company Genetic Signatures has expanded its product range with the introduction and first sales of the EasyScreen Respiratory Virus Detection Kit.
The kit, which simultaneously identifies 15 of the most common respiratory infections, has been launched in advance of the company's anticipated debut on the Australian Stock Exchange.
According to the World Health Organisation, respiratory viral infections kill an estimated 3.9 million people per year and are one of the top five causes of mortality worldwide particularly in children, the elderly and immunocompromised persons.
The company said in a statement that, in addition to increasing the risk of secondary bacterial infections, respiratory viruses cause an enormous burden to health systems by way of direct medical expenses and indirect productivity losses.
According to Genetic Signatures’ CEO, Dr John Melki, “The EasyScreen Respiratory Virus Detection Kit provides an efficient and comprehensive system for the daily screening of patient samples.
"This solution can be integrated into EasyScreen workflows already in place in multiple pathology laboratories around Australia.
“The introduction of this product will contribute to ongoing growth of our strong domestic base, as we continue expansion into European and US markets."