Mast Group products ‘could help with novovirus outbreak’

Mast Group has pointed out that its products could be of use in the coming weeks, as the number of people who contract novovirus is predicted to rise.

Following news reports that claim further outbreaks of the vomiting bug are on the horizon, Mast Group has highlighted that its Eiken Loopamp assay may be integral in the monitoring of the virus.

According to the organisation, the product, which has been approved by the Health Protection Agency’s Reference Laboratory, has the ability to detect the presence of the virus and therefore ease the problems ahead for healthcare establishments.

The assay requires no dedicated equipment and results can be achieved in approximately one hour.

Around 140 wards have already been closed around the country and routine operations cancelled as work gets underway to contain the virus.

In other Mast Group news, the British Thoracic Society updated its guidelines for pneumonia investigations in November and recommended the use of PCR tests, such as those provided by the firm.