The FDA has just given approval to new plague and tularemia detection kits from Idaho Technologies, Inc. The kits use PCR technology (polymerase chain reaction) to provide quick on-site results on the nature of a pathogen.
While naturally occurring cases of Yersinia pestis and Francisella tularensis are rare, both of these agents are classified as Category A Select Agents by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Category A agents are high-priority organisms that pose a risk to national security because they can be used as agents of bioterrorism. Clearance by the FDA allows both reagent kits to be used to help ensure that the country is better prepared to respond to a bioterrorism attack. The two pathogen detection kits join ITI’s growing portfolio of kits used in conjunction with the company’s detection instruments and extend the company’s leadership position in the biothreat detection market. The detection kits are intended for use by trained clinical laboratory personnel who have received specific training on the use of the JBAIDS Plague and Tularemia Detection kits, for on-site analysis of dangerous biological pathogens.
Test kits and reagents page at Idaho Technologies, Inc.
Press release: Idaho Technology, Inc. Plague And Tularemia Detection Kits Receive FDA Clearance