We’re doing our bit for the NHS
Press Release: 16th April 2020
After researching several suppliers, AlphaBiolabs has been successful in developing a complete coronavirus antibody testing kit. This includes a German-made immunoassay screening device, blood lancet, buffer solution, plastic pipette and an alcohol cleansing wipe. Originally, these supplies were intended for our workplace and legal customers to ensure that businesses could remain functioning and courts in operation.
However, during the pre-launch we became aware of the desperate need for testing from emergency services, key frontline workers and the NHS. As a result, we decided to donate our initial stock of 2500 testing kits to the NHS free of charge. We believe that at this critical time, their need for a coronavirus screening test is greatest.
COVID-19 screening test
The AlphaBiolabs IgM-IgG Combined Antibody Rapid Test works by detecting both early and late marker antibodies in human finger-prick blood samples. Results can be read on the testing device within 15 minutes. Lines appear in the testing device window, much like on a pregnancy test. There is no need to send samples away for laboratory testing as is the case with PCR testing.
Immunoglobulin M (IgM) provides the first line of defence during viral infections, followed by immunoglobulin G (IgG), which is linked to our immunological memory, in short, immunity. Therefore, testing of COVID-19 IgM and IgG antibodies is an effective method for the rapid diagnosis of COVID-19 infection. Detection of IgM antibodies tends to indicate a current or recent exposure to COVID-19, whereas the detection of IgG antibodies indicates a later stage of infection, therefore, informing the donor if they have previously had the COVID-19 infection up to 6 weeks prior.
“We understand and acknowledge that onsite screening testing devices are known and accepted by scientists to not be as accurate as laboratory confirmatory testing”, said David Thomas. “However, with a simple robust sample collection procedure they are excellent at providing a reliable, rapid, cost-effective means to quickly identity our body’s reaction to a COVID-19 infection, which is what is required at this current time.”
For further information on the AlphaBiolabs IgM-IgG Combined Antibody Rapid Test, please visit our webpage. Alternatively, please contact our Customer Services team on 0333 600 1300, or email info@alphabiolabs.com
Notes to editors
AlphaBiolabs provides DNA, drug and alcohol testing services to a client base which includes members of the public, businesses, family and immigration law solicitors, social services, the media and universities. The company, founded in 2004, is based in Warrington, where it has one of the largest laboratories of its kind in Europe.
It was the first UKAS ISO 17025 accredited laboratory to introduce a next-day DNA testing service, which helped earn AlphaBiolabs a Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2016. The laboratory has also developed state-of-the-art techniques to provide an accurate historical record of drug or alcohol abuse. Hair strands, oral fluids, urine and fingernails can all be tested. It also offers continuous alcohol monitoring with its SCRAM CAM alcohol-testing bracelet.
AlphaBiolabs has walk-in centres in north and south London, Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Glasgow, Newcastle upon Tyne, Preston and Warrington.
Visit www.alphabiolabs.co.uk for more information.
The media contact for AlphaBiolabs is Alyssa James
Email: ajames@alphabiolabs.com or media@alphabiolabs.com
Phone: 01925 255450
