Bosch Healthcare Solutions, a subsidiary of global technology and services provider Bosch Group, has introduced a new PCR test for three major diarrhea pathogens – Clostridioides difficile, norovirus, and rotavirus. The test is available through distribution partners such as Randox Laboratories and R-Biopharm.
The Vivalytic test is the first of its kind, able to detect all three pathogens in under an hour on site. This is a significant improvement from previous tests, which either included these pathogens in a larger panel or tested for each individually. The Vivalytic test expands the capabilities of the Vivalytic analysis platform to include gastroenteritis.
According to Marc Meier, president of Bosch Healthcare Solutions, the development of this test will allow medical practices and clinics to quickly identify the cause of gastroenteritis and respond with appropriate treatment and infection control measures. This is particularly important in Germany, where Clostridioides difficile infection rates are on the rise and cases are becoming more severe in younger patients.
The differentiation of pathogens is crucial in initiating the appropriate treatment, avoiding complications, and controlling the spread of infection. The Vivalytic Analyser from Bosch Healthcare Solutions supports rapid sample processing, which is particularly important for C. difficile, as the toxin may no longer be detectable at room temperature within two hours. The rapid sample processing is recommended by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI).
Dr. Stefan Zimmermann, Senior Physician at the Center for Infectious Diseases at Heidelberg University Hospital, emphasizes the importance of rapid and accurate diagnosis in initiating proper treatment and preventing potential complications. C. difficile is the main cause of nosocomial (hospital-acquired) diarrheal diseases, which can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated quickly and effectively.
In addition to C. difficile, other pathogens such as norovirus and rotavirus can also cause gastroenteritis. The Vivalytic test for all three pathogens is sensible in providing a comprehensive diagnosis. Norovirus and rotavirus are particularly prevalent in children and the elderly, and differentiating these viruses from other pathogens is essential for effective management.
The Vivalytic Analyser allows for quick and easy testing for these three pathogens directly at the point of care, with results available in under an hour. The system is user-friendly and requires only a brief training session for medical staff. The fully automated process significantly lowers the risk of infection for the user.
Bosch Healthcare Solutions recently obtained CE certification for three versions of its new gastroenteritis test: Vivalytic C. difficile, Vivalytic norovirus, and the triple test Vivalytic norovirus, rotavirus, C. diff.
Bosch Healthcare Solutions GmbH was established in 2015 with the aim of developing products and services that improve people’s health and quality of life. The subsidiary employs nearly 300 associates and draws on the Bosch Group’s core competencies of sensors, software, and services.
The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services, with operations divided into four business sectors: Mobility, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The company aims to use technology to help shape universal trends such as automation, electrification, digitalization, connectivity, and sustainability. With technology that is “Invented for life,” Bosch wants to help improve quality of life and conserve natural resources.
For more information about Bosch Healthcare Solutions and the Vivalytic test, visit their website or follow them on social media. This is a press release for journalists and does not replace a consultation or recommendation by a medical practitioner.
Sources:
– Hygienemaßnahmen bei Clostridioides difficile-Infektion (CDI), Empfehlung der Kommission für Krankenhaushygiene und Infektionsprävention (KRINKO) beim Robert Koch-Institut Bundesgesundheitsbl 2019, 62: 906-923.
– RKI Ratgeber C. difficile https://www.rki.de/DE/Content/Infekt/EpidBull/Merkblaetter/Ratgeber_Clostridium.html, retrieved on 07/15/2024
– RKI Ratgeber Noroviren https://www.rki.de/DE/Content/Infekt/EpidBull/Merkblaetter/Ratgeber_Noroviren.html, retrieved on 07/15/2024
– RKI Ratgeber Rotaviren https://www.rki.de/DE/Content/Infekt/EpidBull/Merkblaetter/Ratgeber_Rotaviren.html, retrieved on 07/15/2024
