Smiths Detection confirms BioFlash detects airborne SARS-CoV-2 variants including Delta and Delta plus

Rhea-AI Summary

Smiths Detection, a leader in security screening technologies, confirms that its air sampler, BioFlash, can detect multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants, including Alpha and Delta. The company aims to validate detection of the Lambda variant by Autumn. Previously, BioFlash was recognized by the US Army as capable of detecting airborne SARS-CoV-2, aiding universities in COVID-19 mitigation strategies. BioFlash offers rapid, near-real-time detection without the need for laboratory analysis, enhancing pandemic recovery efforts.

Positive

• BioFlash can detect multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants, enhancing its market potential.
• Recognition by the US Army boosts credibility and potential sales in defense and health sectors.
• Rapid, near-real-time pathogen detection capabilities can support broader adoption in various sectors.

Negative

• None.

Confirmation of additional emerging variant detection underway

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Smiths Detection, a global leader in threat detection and security screening technologies, today confirms that its air sampler, BioFlash®, can detect SARS-CoV-2 variants including the Alpha variant (B.1.1.7), Beta variant (B.1.351), Gamma variant (P.1), the Kappa variant (B1.617.1), Delta (B.1.617.2) and Delta plus variant (B.1.617.2.1). The company is currently confirming the ability to detect the Lambda variant, with results likely available in Autumn.

In January, Smiths Detection announced that BioFlash was capable of detecting airborne SARS-CoV-2 by the United States Army of Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), and has been successfully used by several Universities to stop the spread of COVID-19 following airborne detection in several campus buildings.

“It has been a great asset to have this equipment at UMBC. As everyone knows, you need a layered protection strategy to combat COVID. BioFlash is easy and fast to use which makes it a critical part of our mitigation strategy to help prevent transmission,” said Mike Pound, Director of Environmental Health and Safety for University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC).

“Emerging variants are a threat to pandemic recovery; however, mitigation strategies that utilize BioFlash will have an advantage. BioFlash works by collecting aerosols and identifies the presence of dangerous pathogens using sensitive, specific and rapid detection in near-real time without laboratory analysis. Not only can BioFlash detect COVID-19 and its variants, it can be used by anyone, giving them immediate results, in minutes not days, which helps stop the spread of COVID-19 and other airborne pathogens.” Explains Warren Mino, Managing Director, Smiths Detection.

ENDS

About Smiths Detection

Smiths Detection, part of Smiths Group, is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies for aviation, ports and borders, defence and urban security markets. Our experience and history across more than 40 years at the frontline enables us to deliver the solutions needed to protect society from the threat and illegal passage of explosives, prohibited weapons, contraband, toxic chemicals and narcotics.

Our goal is simple – to provide security, peace of mind and freedom of movement upon which the world depends.

For more information visit http://www.smithsdetection.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211012005454/en/

Media Contacts

FTI Consulting:

Tom Hufton, sc.smithsdetection@fticonsulting.com, +44 (0)20 3727 1000

Smiths Detection:

Sophie Mills, Global Communications Manager, sophie.mills@smithsdetection.com, + 44 (0)7384236474

Dana Knox-Gower, Marketing and Communications Director – Americas, dana.gower@smiths-detection.com. +1 (203) 482 6752

Source: Smiths Detection

FAQ

What variants can BioFlash detect?

BioFlash can detect Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Kappa, Delta, Delta plus variants, and is confirming detection for Lambda.

When will the results for Lambda variant detection be available?

Results for Lambda variant detection are expected to be available in Autumn.

How has BioFlash been used in pandemic recovery?

BioFlash has been used by universities to prevent COVID-19 spread through airborne detection.

What recognition has BioFlash received?

BioFlash was confirmed capable of detecting airborne SARS-CoV-2 by the US Army's Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases.