Global testing and laboratory services firm Eurofins, said two of its clinical diagnostic testing laboratories in the U.S. now offer testing for evaluation of COVID-19. On March 13, 2020, Viracor Eurofins, one of the largest infectious diseases testing laboratories in the U.S., is launching a stand-alone real time reverse transcriptase PCR assay for the qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2.
 
Additionally, next week, Diatherix Eurofins expects to begin testing for SARS-CoV-2 as part of its newly updated Target Enriched Multiplex PCR (TEM-PCR) Respiratory Viral Panels.
 
Both laboratories shall offer testing in accordance with the FDA Emergency Use Authorization Guidance. These testing methods give healthcare providers options for either evaluating patients at risk for SARS-CoV-2 exposure with targeted testing or screening patients with respiratory complications for the cause of their symptoms.
 
Both laboratories plan to provide results back to healthcare providers the same day the specimens are received for samples received early in the morning (12 to 18 hours after sample receipt). These tests will be available directly from the testing laboratories or through the other Eurofins U.S. Clinical Diagnostic Laboratories: Eurofins NTD, Boston Heart Diagnostics, Eurofins VRL and EGL Genetics. This extensive network of options will continue to aid in the response to this novel virus.
 
In Germany, Eurofins GeLaMed started testing for COVID-19 last week and has already tested hundreds of samples. Eurofins’ laboratories in France, the Benelux and Spain are getting ready to start testing immediately with tests they developed and validated, after approval by public health authorities which is expected shortly.
 
“As a world leader and innovator in analytical testing, we are pleased to support the global response to SARS-CoV-2 by giving healthcare providers options in evaluating their patients during this terrible outbreak,” said Gilles Martin, chief executive officer, Eurofins.
 
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