UK scientists to lead testing of in-the-field Ebola test

A new research project evaluating a rapid in-the-field test for Ebola is to be headed by Public Health England scientists.

The Innovative Medicines Initiative will provide Public Health England with a one million pound grant to coordinate a consortium of European public and private sector scientists to develop and validate the new Ebola test.

This molecular point-of-care system has been deemed suitable for safe, specific and sensitive detection of Ebola viral infection within the field. It is able to detect the genetic material of the Ebola virus at a sensitivity and specificity comparable with laboratory testing.

It is based on an existing CE-marked assay marketed by Altona and an integrated molecular diagnostic platform from Alere.

Chief medical officer Dame Sally Davies said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for Public Health England to significantly improve how we treat Ebola patients and ultimately stop the spread of the virus."

The outbreak of Ebola in West Africa is the worst in recorded history and has triggered a global effort to contain its spread in recent months.