AcroMetrix Announces Launch of OptiQual(R) Enterovirus Controls

BENICIA, Calif., Aug. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- AcroMetrix announced today the launch of the OptiQual(R) Enterovirus Low Positive and Negative Controls in anticipation of the Enterovirus testing season. The OptiQual(R) Enterovirus Low Positive Control is the first ready-to-use control intended for use in assessing the performance of nucleic acid test procedures for the qualitative determination of Enterovirus RNA. This product is intended for Research Use Only.

In the United States, most Enterovirus infections occur between June and October, manifesting as the summer flu and causing an estimated 10-15 million symptomatic infections every summer. Although relatively harmless, aseptic Enterovirus infections account for more than 50,000 hospitalizations every year and contribute significant amounts to the cost associated with care.

"The OptiQual(R) Enterovirus Controls will be the first standardized control in the field of Enterovirus testing," said Matt Trappe, Global Product Manager, AcroMetrix, "We are extremely excited to provide this unique solution to the Enterovirus testing laboratory."

The OptiQual(R) Enterovirus Low Positive Control is calibrated against a standard set at 100 EVU/mL (Enterovirus Units per milliliter) in accordance with the ISO 17511 standard. The establishment of the EVU allows for the standardized comparison of test results across laboratories, assays, and manufacturers performing Enterovirus testing.

About AcroMetrix -- AcroMetrix, with facilities in Benicia, California and Alkmaar, The Netherlands, provides a comprehensive line of molecular and serological diagnostic quality control products that assist laboratories in meeting current government regulations regarding quality. AcroMetrix maintains this leadership role by consistently developing innovative standards, external run controls, and validation kits for molecular and serological testing in blood screening and clinical diagnostic laboratories. For more information on AcroMetrix please visit the company web site at http://www.acrometrix.com.

CONTACT: Audrey Hughey of AcroMetrix, +1-707-746-8888 ext. 123, or+1-707-746-8881, arh@acrometrix.com

Web site: http://www.acrometrix.com/