by Ryu Hyunseok
Published 05 Nov.2020 09:57(KST)
[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunseok Yoo] AndyForce has obtained export approval for an antigen rapid diagnostic kit capable of simultaneously detecting COVID-19 and influenza viruses, and is launching a global market strategy.
AndyForce announced on the 5th that it received export approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) for the ‘ND COVID-19 & FLU Duo,’ which can simultaneously diagnose COVID-19 and influenza A and B viruses.
The approved diagnostic kit uses nasopharyngeal swab specimens to determine infection with COVID-19 in its early stages as well as influenza A and B viruses within 15 minutes.
The antigen rapid diagnostic method has mainly been used in developing countries with relatively poor quarantine infrastructure, such as Asia and South America. However, demand for antigen rapid diagnostic kits is increasing as they are now being used alongside molecular diagnostics in advanced countries like Europe and the United States, where infection numbers are rapidly rising.
An AndyForce official stated, “Globally, concerns about a twin-demic of COVID-19 and influenza are growing, and the demand for simultaneous diagnostic kits that can quickly diagnose and differentiate these infections is expected to surge. Since we quickly obtained export approval by combining COVID-19 and influenza rapid diagnostic kits, we will strive to secure a leading position in the global market.”
He added, “AndyForce has competitiveness to supply diagnostic kit products tailored to each country’s quarantine policies based on a diverse portfolio including this antigen simultaneous diagnostic kit, molecular diagnostics (PCR), antigen and antibody rapid diagnostics, and COVID-influenza simultaneous molecular diagnostic kits (PCR). We are currently proceeding with import approval procedures and supply contract negotiations for the antigen simultaneous diagnostic kit in various countries, so exports are expected to materialize soon.”
Meanwhile, AndyForce signed an MOU last September to establish a COVID-19 diagnostic kit factory in Indonesia, and last month signed an exclusive supply MOU with a Middle Eastern medical company for all AndyForce diagnostic kit products in 18 Middle Eastern countries and North Africa.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.