BD expands infectious disease portfolio

BD’s diagnostics division has expanded its suite of tools to control and prevent infectious diseases through the addition of new surveillance software, it has been announced.

Philippe Jacon, president of diagnostic systems at BD Diagnostics, said that the move allows the company to provide a range of integrated information solutions to healthcare professionals looking to reduce the incidence and transmission of infections.

BD explained that through the acquisition of ICPA, it has gained a proprietary software system that is capable of tracking and monitoring emerging infection issues.

ICPA chief executive Deborah Martin said: "For the last 20 years, ICPA’s mission has been to deliver healthcare software for the purpose of improving patient care and employee health. Our mission fits perfectly with BD’s purpose of helping all people live healthy lives."

Ms Martin will join BD as worldwide director of infection prevention in the diagnostic systems division of BD Diagnostics.

On July 28th, BD’s board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of 33 cents (19p) per common share, which is payable on September 30th to holders of record on September 9th.