QUEST OFFERS TEST TO DETECT AVIAN FLU

Quest Diagnostics has developed a diagnostic test to detect avian flu and will participate in the government's efforts to provide rapid diagnosis and early surveillance of an outbreak, the company said.

Quest will employ a gene-based screening test that will be performed on respiratory samples, which include sputum, swabs and bronchial washes. The test is intended to help doctors screen patients with a range of flu-like symptoms who may have been exposed to the virus.

Positive results of the test would be considered a "presumptive identification" of avian flu until confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or other public health laboratories.

(http://www.fdanews.com/ddl target=_blank)