BD Diagnostic Systems, Sparks, MD, announces the immediate availability of the BD Directigen™ EZ RSV Test. The test is in a new, improved format that uses only one reagent (the extraction reagent) and one device to perform the test. An elongated, triangular device is used with the addition of innovative lateral flow technology – a method whereby dried reagents have already been applied to the testing strip. With this improvement some previously required reagent steps are now eliminated. Technologists benefit from increased ease-of-use, with a testing procedure workflow now reduced to a two-step process. The test provides clear-cut results when an easy-to-read double line appears, indicating a positive result for RSV, along with the Internal Control line. The BD Directigen EZ RSV Test is an accurate test that is so easy to use it can be done on all laboratory shifts, without any specialized training.

BD Directigen EZ RSV is a truly STAT RSV diagnostic assay, producing results within 15 minutes of sample addition. STAT testing is vital when you're dealing with RSV – the single most important respiratory pathogen in infancy and early childhood.¹ In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the use of a rapid RSV antigen detection test prior to treatment with ribavirin.¹ Rapid testing, and consequently rapid RSV diagnosis, can minimize unnecessary costs associated with ribavirin therapy, including administration and extended patient isolation. To detect RSV antigens from specimens of symptomatic patients the Directigen EZ RSV test utilizes lateral flow technology. Positive and negative test results are based on the presence or absence of RSV antigens in the specimen. Respiratory specimens suitable for testing include nasopharyngeal washes, nasopharyngeal aspirates and nasopharyngeal swabs.

The BD Directigen EZ RSV test kit is packaged with 30 devices, extraction reagent, liquid positive and negative controls, and tubes and tips for specimen extraction and sample delivery into the devices. For more information contact your local BD representative or call toll-free at 1- (800) - 638-8663.

¹Hall et al. 1993. Use of ribavirin in the treatment of respiratory syncytial virus infection. Pediatrics 92: 501-504.

BD and Directigen are trademarks of Becton, Dickinson and Company. © 2002 BD.

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