Biotechnology company in Hong Kong swiftly progressing toward creating a diagnostic test for chikungunya fever, aiming for early detection
The biotechnology company Phase Scientific, based in Hong Kong, has developed a new rapid blood test for Chikungunya fever. This test sets itself apart from many existing rapid tests by detecting antigens, specific proteins on the surface of the virus, rather than antibodies produced by the body [1][2].
This approach allows for the identification of the virus at an earlier, acute stage of infection. Most other rapid tests, including those produced in the United States and mainland China, detect antibodies that appear later as part of the body's immune response.
The new test developed by Phase Scientific can yield results quickly, within 10 to 15 minutes using a finger prick blood sample. This rapid diagnosis is a significant advantage over current standard testing methods, which might have longer turnaround times (e.g., hours) and typically rely on detecting antibodies or viral RNA with laboratory equipment.
Mr. Ricky Chiu Yin-to, the founder and CEO of Phase Scientific, announced the development of the new test on Monday. He emphasized that the test is designed to detect the disease at an earlier stage, potentially offering advantages over current tests that look for antibodies [1][2].
The new test is part of Hong Kong's ongoing efforts to combat public health risks using technology. If successful, it could help in the early detection of Chikungunya fever, improving public health efforts.
[1] Chiu, R. (2022). Press Release: Rapid Blood Test for Chikungunya Fever. Phase Scientific. [2] Wong, J. (2022). Hong Kong Develops Rapid Blood Test for Chikungunya Fever. South China Morning Post.
- The development of this new rapid blood test for Chikungunya fever by Phase Scientific, a tech company based in Hong Kong, signifies how technology is playing a crucial role in medical-conditions diagnosis and health-and-wellness.
- By detecting antigens rather than antibodies, the novel test from Phase Scientific allows for early identification of Chikungunya virus at the acute stage of infection, which could improve the overall health sector.
- Leveraging technology to combat public health risks, the new rapid test for Chikungunya fever could significantly impact health-and-wellness efforts by offering immediate findings to aid in disease management and control.
