New test procedure enables direct use of whole blood for
greater convenience and faster results in Point-of Care
testing
HALIFAX,
March 13, 2014 /CNW/ - MedMira
Inc. (TSXV: MIR) has received approval to market an
enriched version of its Reveal HIV test that simplifies the test
procedure, enabling direct use of whole blood specimens - making
the test even more convenient for point-of-care test users,
especially in emergency situations when every second counts. The
new enhancements build on what is already the fastest HIV test
among all patented rapid diagnostic technologies available in
Europe.
According to the European Centre for Disease
Prevention and Control (ECDC) and WHO/Europe sponsored HIV/AIDS surveillance in
Europe 2012 report, HIV infection
rates in Europe have increased
eight percent since 2011. The report calls for the need to make HIV
testing more available across Europe and for more accelerated action against
HIV, which at this time is often undiagnosed or diagnosed late in
the course of the disease. Terrence Higgins Trust, a UK HIV
and sexual health charity, released a report earlier this year
titled, 2020 Vision: Making England's HIV Prevention Response
the Best in the World, urging government to increase testing
initiatives by 250,000 tests per year to drive down infection rates
and undiagnosed HIV cases.
The Reveal HIV test can help meet this goal.
This latest version of the test includes a redesigned cartridge and
InstantGoldä Cap that changes the whole blood procedure. Now users
can pour the sample directly into the cartridge enabling greater
ease-of-use and faster results. By increasing throughput with
instant results, users can also achieve greater cost
efficiencies.
"With infection rates on the rise across
Europe, the need for rapid testing
has never been more apparent," said Kevin
Jones, Ph.D., senior director, global sales and marketing,
MedMira. "Our improved whole blood procedure will enable
users to test for HIV even more quickly, which is critical in
point-of-care situations. We make advancements to our Rapid
Vertical Flow Technology based on customer feedback and needs as
well as industry trends. This latest version optimizes the
user experience and our redesigned cartridge and cap will be used
in all of MedMira's new products that are available through our
current and future sales channels."
The Reveal HIV test is an easy-to-use, first
line of defense against the spread of HIV infection. Built on
MedMira's patented Rapid Vertical Flow Technology™, the three-step
procedure does not require any specialized training or equipment
and results are easy to interpret. The Company's rapid HIV
test is also moving through the approval process with the U.S.
FDA. Both the EU and U.S. tests include the same features and
benefits - three easy steps from go to know - and add a host of
features that further simplify the procedure.
To see just how simple the Reveal HIV test is to
use, view our short video.
About MedMira
MedMira is a leading developer and manufacturer
of vertical flow rapid diagnostics. The Company's tests provide
hospitals, labs, clinics and individuals with instant diagnosis for
diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C in just three easy steps. The
Company's tests are sold under the Reveal, Multiplo and Miriad™
brands in global markets. Based on its patented Rapid Vertical Flow
Technology, MedMira's rapid HIV test is the only one in the world
to achieve regulatory approvals in Canada, the United
States, China and the
European Union. MedMira's corporate offices and manufacturing
facilities are located in Halifax, Nova
Scotia, Canada. For more information visit medmira.com.
This news release contains forward-looking
statements, which involve risk and uncertainties and reflect the
Company's current expectation regarding future events including
statements regarding possible approval and launch of new products,
future growth, and new business opportunities. Actual events
could materially differ from those projected herein and depend on a
number of factors including, but not limited to, changing market
conditions, successful and timely completion of clinical studies,
uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process,
establishment of corporate alliances and other risks detailed from
time to time in the company quarterly filings.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its
Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the
policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for
the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
SOURCE MedMira Inc.
