Coronaviruses are able to cause massive disease outbreaks. These infectious viruses can trigger severe respiratory diseases which sometimes even lead to death. A new real-time RT-PCR test helps to diagnose coronavirus infections fast and reliably.
Coronaviruses belong to the family of Coronaviridae and particularly trigger infections of the respiratory tract in humans. Coronaviruses are RNA viruses with high genetic variability, allowing them to overcome species barriers and infect different types of hosts. In 2012, a newly barrier transferring virus, MERS-CoV (Middle-East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus), emerged causing severe illness in humans. Other coronaviruses (HKU1, NL63, 229E, OC43) are also human pathogenic causing illnesses from mild flu-like infections to severe acute respiratory syndromes. A rapid diagnosis of coronavirus infection is important to prevent further transmission.
RIDA®GENE – Fast detection and differentiation of coronaviruses and MERS
Molecular biological methods such as real-time RT-PCR support diagnosis of respiratory infections caused by coronaviruses. A new diagnostic test is now available: The RIDA®GENE Coronavirus is a multiplex real-time RT-PCR for the direct, qualitative detection and differentiation of coronaviruses (HKU1, NL63, 229E, OC43) and MERS from human nasal and throat swabs, throat washes, sputum and BAL. Specific and reliable results can be obtained within only 2 hours.
The assay can be run on the commonly used real-time PCR instruments, such as the Mx3005P, LightCycler® 480II, ABI 7500, CFX96TM or Rotor-Gene Q.
The R-Biopharm RIDA®GENE kits include all necessary components required for the specific detection of pathogens. An included extraction control ensures reliable results. All R-Biopharm RIDA®GENE kits are CE marked and are regularly evaluated in most common proficiency testing schemes such as QCMD, Instand and UK NEQAS.