Randox supports Northern Ireland travellers to the Algarve with essential COVID-19 PCR ātest-to-returnā service
Randox supports Northern Ireland travellers to the Algarve with essential COVID-19 PCR ātest-to-returnā service
21st May 2021 – Randox supports Northern Ireland travellers to the Algarve with essential COVID-19 PCR ‘test-to-return’ service
The NI Executive has today announced that, from 24th May, travellers from Portugal to Northern Ireland must arrive with a negative COVID-19 PCR test. This varies from travellers to England, where a lateral flow test is also a possibility. Randox, the UK’s largest COVID-19 PCR testing provider, have recently announced that travellers to the Algarve will be able to purchase a COVID-19 “test-to-return” kit. In a first for the industry, NI holidaymakers will then be able to have their self-collected samples promptly flown from their holiday destination to Randox’s laboratories in Antrim for gold standard PCR testing. Results are emailed to the traveller ready in time for their flight home.
In response to high demand from British holidaymakers to visit Portugal, Randox has partnered with the largest laboratory chain in the Algarve to offer holidaymakers to the region this new quick and easy solution. Travellers simply purchase and take their ‘test-to-return’ kit to Portugal and, at their convenience, self-collect their sample 3 days before the return flight. Travellers drop their sample at one of the listed partner laboratory sites and samples are then flown to Randox’s testing facilities in Antrim. Customers receive their results the next day. The partner laboratory has many convenient sites across the Algarve, including at Lagos, Portimao, Lagoa, Silves, Albufera, Loule, Faro, Olaho and Quartiera.
The PCR test-to-return service will be available to travellers returning on flights from the Algarve from the 7th June and will cost £60 per testing kit. As a package travellers from NI can also purchase from Randox PCR tests for pre-departure from the UK and the required Day 2 test on return.
Sophie Boyd, Randox Operations Manager, said;
“As the UK gradually opens up to international travel, we are delighted to be able to offer those visiting the Algarve the ability to have a fast and reliable PCR ‘test-to-return’ service, which means travellers have one less thing to worry about and can concentrate on enjoying their holiday. This is particularly relevant for travellers from Northern Ireland. Through our partner network we also have support for the traveller in the Algarve, should they need it.
“Randox is now able to process 500,000 tests a day for international travel – more than any other laboratory in Europe – and to date our laboratories have processed over 13 million tests. We are working hard to support the international fight against the pandemic by offering testing services that allow people to live their lives as normally as possible.
Randox, with almost 40 years of international diagnostics experience, has been at the forefront of COVID-19 testing since the outset of the pandemic. With proven testing capability and well-established logistics and customer support services, Randox are strongly placed to support the return to international travel.
Randox, with almost 40 years of international diagnostics experience, has been at the forefront of COVID-19 testing since the outset of the pandemic. With proven testing capability and well-established logistics and customer support services, Randox are strongly placed to support the return to international travel.
For further information on our COVID testing services please contact the Randox COVID Customer Support team on covidcustomersupport@randox.com or 0800 2545 201.
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9th April 2021: 12 million tests on the National Testing Programme
09TH APRIL 2021: THE 12 MILLION MILESTONE
We are pleased to let you know that on 09th April 2021, Randox processed its 12 millionth sample within the UK COVID-19 National Testing Programme.
That’s an incredible 12 million samples processed by our dedicated and talented staff.
Our staff are our best asset and have risen to the challenge this pandemic has created.
They have worked hard and flexibly, been creative and innovative, and pulled together as a team to make an impact in the fight against COVID-19.
We are very proud of their efforts and teamwork.
Let us once again say thank you to each and every member of Team Randox, for the efforts they have made.
What we do at Randox remains vital to the national and global management of COVID-19 and our work is making a real and positive difference.
We continue to work hard and improve, for the sake of our family, friends and communities.
For further information please email randoxpr@randox.com
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World Health Day 2021
7th April 2021
Building a fairer, healthier world
World Health Day is a global health awareness day celebrated every year on 7th April, under the sponsorship of the World Health Organisation (WHO) who sees it as an opportunity to draw worldwide attention to a subject of major importance to global health. Each year is related to a particular theme and this year’s focus is “building a fairer, healthier world”.
In view of the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic where restrictions remain in place across most parts of the world, this time has highlighted that some people are able to live healthier lives and have better access to health services than others. COVID-19 has hit all countries hard, but its impact has been harshest on those communities which were already vulnerable, who are more exposed to the disease, less likely to have access to quality health care services and more likely to experience adverse consequences as a result of measures implemented to contain the pandemic, placing additional stress on healthcare systems across the world.
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted and even halted particular health services with most countries (90%) reporting that many routine and elective services have been suspended, while critical care – such as cancer screening and treatment and HIV therapy has seen high-risk interruptions (WHO, 2020).
“the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic or social condition.” (WHO, 2021).
Randox has adapted to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic by developing pioneering tests to diagnose COVID-19, offering a range of COVID-19 testing solutions using Randox’s patented Biochip Technology capable of conducting multiple tests simultaneously on a range of molecular testing platforms, with results available from the Vivalytic, Evidence Investigator and Randox Discovery.
With a game-changing global partnership formed between Randox Laboratories and Bosch Healthcare Solutions combining science and technology, successfully launching the Vivalytic – the all in one solution for molecular diagnostics, the Vivalytic has been designed against the challenges posed by climate change and to contribute towards sustainability. The Vivalytic cartridges are CO2 neutral – this means that emissions that are in our direct sphere of influence are neutralised – making a further contribution to climate protection.
Furthermore, Randox’s vision is to improve healthcare worldwide and to ensure physicians and the public have access to the latest advancements in clinical diagnostics to aid diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients. Randox offer a comprehensive biochip test menu to support and combat challenges facing global health on an everyday basis from testing for Chronic Lung Disease (CLD) to predicting Alzheimers Disease. View Randox’s full Biochip Technology Immunoassay test menu here.
Please contact marketing@randox.com for further information on any of the mentioned above.
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Approaching the Fundamental Impact of STIs Worldwide
02 March 2021
The Global Economic Burden of STIs & The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Sexual Health Whitepaper Download
Sexual Health encompasses; genito-urinary medicine, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, contraception, psychosexual medicine, abortion services, teenage pregnancy and sexual and reproductive health. It is delivered in various settings, providing care across specialised services as well as through primary and third sector organisations.
Sexual and reproductive health is a fundamental public health issue and is clearly recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO). This whitepaper focuses on the profound impact of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide with WHO reporting that more than 1 million STIs are acquired every day (WHO, 2020).
The whitepaper discusses issues such as antimicrobial resistance, in particular gonorrhoea, and the challenges faced in a social and public concept due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants: successful detection despite virus mutation
02 February 2021
Test performance not affected by mutation found in new UK, South African and Brazilian variants.
The new SARS-CoV-2 variants that have been identified recently in the UK (known as 501Y.V1, VOC202012/01 or B.1.1.7 lineage), South Africa (known as 501Y.V2 or B.1.351 lineage) and Brazil (B.1.1.248 lineage), contain multiple mutations in the segment of the virus’ genome that codes for the spike protein.
Of particular interest is a double deletion at position 69-70 of the spike protein gene (69-70del), observed in the B1.1.7 variant, which has been found to affect the performance of some diagnostic PCR assays that use an S gene target (S gene dropout).
Detection of SARS-CoV-2 using the multiplex RT-qPCR assay from Randox Laboratories Ltd. is not affected by the identified mutations. This kit is a fast and highly sensitive multiplex diagnostic solution containing the necessary components to provide the detection of two genes (ORf I ab, E gene) to reduce the impact of genetic variation in the SARS-CoV-2 genome. The multiplex primer mix in this assay allows the amplification of specific gene sequences found within the genome of the pathogen, covering all variants. Therefore, the mutations in the B.I.I.7, B.I.351 and B.I.I.248 lineage variants do not affect the detection of SARS-CoV-2 by the PCR test.
Randox Laboratories Ltd. monitors SARS-CoV-2 variants in NCBI and GISAID databases and performs bioinformatics analysis regularly. Based on in silico analysis the performance of the test is not impacted by the mutations.
The Randox multiplex RT-qPCR diagnostic kit supports clinical and public health laboratories to quickly diagnose COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection, assisting the screening and isolation of individuals that require quarantine and immediate intervention.
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Randox unveils SARS-CoV-2 antibody test to determine previous COVID-19 infection in just 1.5 hours
21st December 2020
Randox unveils SARS-CoV-2 antibody test to determine previous COVID-19 infection in just 1.5 hours
Randox Laboratories is proud to announce the launch of its new SARS-CoV-2 IgG test, utilising patented Randox Biochip Technology to simultaneously detect IgG antibodies that are reactive to both of the leading COVID-19 diagnostic antigens – Spike Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) and Nucleocapsid protein (NP).
Maximum test sensitivity is ensured through simultaneous detection of both RBD-only and NP-only responders, making it superior to current commercially available COVID-19 IgG tests that are based on RBD or NP alone, from which false negative results can occur.
The Randox SARS-CoV-2 IgG (RBD & NP) Array provides clinicians with an opportunity to discriminate vaccinated individuals from those naturally infected by COVID-19.
Lynsey Adams, Randox Clinical Marketing Manager commented;
“When there is little or no access to molecular testing, serology tests provide a means to quickly triage suspected cases of COVID-19, enabling appropriate case management, and guiding public health measures, such as quarantine or self-isolation.
“The new Randox SARS-CoV-2 IgG (RBD & NP) Array, provides a unique insight into disease severity, is an established method of indirect disease diagnosis, and facilitates epidemiological surveillance as the COVID-19 pandemic progresses.”
The Randox SARS-CoV-2 IgG (RBD & NP) Array has been developed for the Evidence Investigator, a semi-automated benchtop immunoassay analyser delivering accurate results in just 1.5 hours.
Features of the new Randox SARS-CoV-2 IgG (RBD & NP) Array
- Utilises established diagnostic antigen candidates – RBD and NP
- IgG measurement confirms adaptive immune response to SARS-CoV-2
- Clinical specificity of 99.5%
- Clinical sensitivity of 100% ≥ 14 days post SARS-CoV-2 PCR confirmation
- Dual sample matrix: human serum/plasma.
Contact marketing@randox.com for further information on our latest SARS-CoV-2 array or click to find out more!
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Vivalyticās rapid coronavirus test delivers results for positive samples in less than 30 minutes
18th December 2020
Cloud-based software update means a faster PCR test for SARS-CoV-2
We are happy to announce that due to improved software for the Vivalytic analysis device, the CE marked Vivalytic SARS-CoV-2 rapid coronavirus test, which uses polymerase chain reactions (PCR), now delivers its results even faster. By applying optimized evaluation strategies, the Vivalytic analysis device can detect a positive SARS-CoV-2 sample through its high viral load in less than 30 minutes, right where the sample is collected.
This modified product is part of a research and development project relating specifically to COVID-19, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) to the tune of 4.97 million euros. The project’s aim is to expand the options for detecting acute infections of the coronavirus, looking particularly at on-the-spot testing in which the sample is analyzed in a fully automatic PCR process, as this offers rapid yet reliable results.
- Improved software for Vivalytic: turnaround time for positive SARS-CoV-2 samples reduced to under 30 minutes.
- Update from the cloud: Vivalytic analysis devices are updated over the internet.
Dr. Volkmar Denner, chairman of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH said;
“In the fight to contain the coronavirus pandemic, speed is of the essence. With Vivalytic, we are delivering cutting-edge medical technology. Our IT and software expertise have helped to make the Bosch Corona test for positive samples even faster – all within a short period of time.”
The new update is available for the SARS-CoV-2 singleplex test and the SARS-CoV-2 pooled test. Updating the Vivalytic testing devices is simple and straightforward – all that is required is an internet connection to access the Bosch cloud platform Vivasuite. Developed in-house at Bosch, the Vivasuite cloud platform allows users to digitally manage and update all their Bosch Healthcare Solutions devices. This is also an advantage when Vivalytic devices are in use in the field. The platform meets the strictest security standards and data privacy is guaranteed at all times: for example, there is no remote access to Vivalytic devices, and no possibility of accessing patient data.
The turnaround time for samples negative for SARS-CoV-2 is still 39 minutes. PCR tests are considered the gold standard, and Bosch’s rapid coronavirus tests have a sensitivity of 98 percent and a specificity of 100 percent.
Contact marketing@randox.com for further information on the latest vivalytic software update for SARS-CoV-2 testing.
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The Six Million Tests Milestone: 2nd December 2020
2ND DECEMBER: THE 6 MILLION MILESTONE
We are pleased to let you know that on 2nd December, Randox surpassed 6 million tests within the UK COVID-19 National Testing Programme.
That’s an incredible 6 million samples accessioned, processed and tested by our dedicated and talented staff.
Our staff are our best asset and have risen to the challenge this pandemic has created.
They have worked hard and flexibly, been creative and innovative, and pulled together as a team to make an impact in the fight against COVID-19.
We are very proud of their efforts and teamwork.
Let us once again say thank you to each and every member of Team Randox, for the efforts they have made in 2020.
What we do at Randox remains vital to the national and global management of COVID-19 and our work is making a real and positive difference.
We continue to work hard and improve, for the sake of our family, friends and communities.
For further information please email randoxpr@randox.com
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Randox & Bosch Healthcare – Collaboratively Combating COVID-19
29th October 2020
Randox & Bosch Healthcare – Collaboratively Combating COVID-19
A game-changing partnership between Randox Laboratories and Bosch Healthcare Solutions continues to change the testing landscape and capabilities of both laboratory and non-laboratory settings in rapidly detecting COVID-19.
Providing clear and concise results, direct at the point of care, the Randox and Bosch Healthcare Solutions collaborative approach not only allows patients to take the recommended safety precautions without delay, but also provides a solution to both analyse and differentiate COVID-19 from other viral respiratory diseases. Multiple testing approaches with the same aim – to overcome COVID-19!
Combining science & technology, timing is of the essence in the fight against coronavirus. Together, we have combined efforts in successfully launching the Vivalytic – the all in one solution for molecular diagnostics consolidating nucleic acid extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and detection onto one small platform.
These efforts reflect a global partnership of both cooperation’s working together to deliver world-class diagnostic solutions, harnessing the power of innovation to improve health worldwide, providing an all in one approach minimising the spread of COVID-19 globally.
Launched after just six weeks at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic back in March 2020, the Viral Respiratory Infection array (VRI) set the benchmark for rapidly detecting SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) whilst simultaneously differentiating between nine other respiratory diseases, in under two and a half hours.
Proactively working together to combat the spread of COVID-19, Randox, Bosch Healthcare Solutions and R-Biopharm are proud to offer variable analysis strategies to detect SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Capable of providing reliable results in just 39 minutes, with a sensitivity of 98% and specificity of 100%, the Vivalytic SARS-CoV-2 rapid test is currently among one of the fastest PCR tests worldwide.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, we have significantly combined our efforts to provide a diverse range of testing solutions and approaches to meet the need of the rise in global cases. Our approaches have been utilised at all possible levels and together we open up a range of different testing strategies, with developments still underway with the upcoming release of the SARS-CoV-2 Pooling test.
The SARS-CoV-2 Pooling test is a rapid solution for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) offering an accelerated decentral testing approach to effectively and efficiently monitor and detect viral infection from the offset. Capable of detecting SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) from up to five pooled samples simultaneously with a capacity to process more than 160 patient samples a day. The pooling could be done at the level of a ward, medical specialty, social bubble, or group of colleagues. It has potential for use in other settings, such as pre-operative screening, schools & universities, prisons, nursing homes, primary care, and large workplaces. Sample pooling allows more people to be tested quickly using fewer testing resources.
Partnering together, we continue to increase our testing capacity, enabling fully automated processing of patient samples to rapidly combat COVID-19.
Please contact marketing@randox.com for further information.
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Randox Extended Coronavirus Array: Bringing the Best Science to the Forefront
COVID-19 (2019-nCoV) was declared a global emergency of international concern. The WHO’s director-general’s greatest concern is the potential for COVID-19 to spread to countries with weaker health systems. The biggest catch with containing the epidemic of COVD-19 is the detection. It has been recognised that faulty kits have been shipped around America by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and there simply aren’t enough kits in China 1. Randox can aid in overcoming these challenges.
What is COVID-19?
The COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus that has not been previously identified in humans. Consequently, research on this new strain is lacking. Symptoms are similar to that of the common cold or flu, including: fever, cough, difficultly breathing, muscle pain and fatigue. Like other respiratory infections, transmission occurs through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, with an estimated incubation period of 2 to 14 days 2.
Current Situation
Globally, there are 46, 997 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with 46, 550 of these confirmed cases attributed to China. Only 447 of the total number of cases are outside of China, across 24 countries. The total number of deaths attributed to COVID-19 sits at 1, 369 of which all have been observed in China, except one. These statistics are laboratory-confirmed cases only 3. These statistics were reported by WHO on 13 February and is the situation of number, total and new cases, within the past 24hrs from being recorded. Whilst China is at a very high risk, the global risk level is high. These statistics indicate the necessity for COVID-19 diagnosis, especially as the above are only laboratory-confirmed cases combined with the faulty tests distributed in America and the lack of diagnostic tests in China.
The Randox Extended Coronavirus Array
Randox have developed a fast and accurate test for the detection of COVID-19, the new strain of coronavirus. The Randox Extended Coronavirus Array is the only test in the world that can identify the potentially lethal strain and differentiate between other respiratory pathogens with similar symptoms.
The new test utilises the Randox Biochip Technology, with results within 5 hours on the Randox Evidence Investigator, a semi-automated analyser capable of processing 54 patient samples simultaneously.
The Randox Coronavirus Array comprises five coronaviruses strains, including the COVID-19 (2019-nCoV) strain. The table below provides a breakdown of the viruses included in the Randox Extended Coronavirus Array:
Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing Director of Randox Laboratories, commented;
“Current technologies for the diagnosis of coronavirus are designed simply to detect the presence or lack of COVID-19, and therefore neglect to differentiate between this strain and other respiratory infections. We have therefore developed an extended Viral Respiratory Infection Array that tests simultaneously for COVID-19 and nine other viruses. This will eliminate the need for multiple back-and-forth tests before the root cause of symptoms is found, and empower clinicians to make fast and informed decisions.”
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