Device detects H5N1 bird flu virus

Scientists in Singapore say they have built a handheld device that can detect the H5N1 bird flu virus within half an hour. This discovery may help strengthen the ability to defend against outbreaks because it has the ability to check on the scene of suspected people.

This device has the ability to separate, filter and activate the virus sample from a gauze used to remove fluid in the throat to test the virus. Traditional tests often have to be done in the lab and it takes a few days to get results.

Breakthrough

H5N1 avian influenza virus has claimed the lives of many people in Indonesia and Vietnam (Photo: AFP)

The Singapore team said their findings could enable immediate testing at the point of infection, as well as in transit hubs such as airports, railway stations . and for quick results. , helps prevent the possibility of an outbreak.

Writing in the scientific journal Nature Medicine , the scientists say they have conducted hundreds of device tests and the results show it is as accurate as traditional devices while much cheaper. They said the device is particularly useful in countries lacking basic medical resources.

Avian influenza occurs regularly in Asia, and experts have long warned that the virus can mutate to cause disease in humans.

So far, nearly 200 people have died worldwide because of the H5N1 bird flu virus.