A pioneer in the field of biotechnology, VMRD Inc has developed, validated, and deployed a non-invasive, practical, and economical approach to surveillance testing for novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2).
Coronavirus Surveillance Process Available for Widespread Deployment
PULLMAN, WA, NOVEMBER 30, 2020--A pioneer in the field of biotechnology, VMRD Inc has developed, validated, and deployed a non-invasive, practical, and economical approach to surveillance testing for novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). VMRD’s innovative method utilizes facemasks as a readily available and effective sample for early SARS-CoV-2 detection, even when affected individuals are pre- or asymptomatic.
A leader in veterinary diagnostics and One Health initiatives, VMRD developed this new process and technology to keep their own workplace healthy and safe for employees. The company has filed for patent protection on its “CovMaT” testing process and this novel approach is now ready for public implementation.
“When the pandemic hit, we had to address the safety of our employees and the health of our business, customers, and community,” said Dr. Don Knowles, Chief Scientific Officer for VMRD. “We did that by developing a process to test facemasks that allows us to detect the presence of virus early, even when individuals are pre- or asymptomatic. When used on a larger scale, we believe our approach can support the goal of reopening workplaces and other institutions and keeping them open during the ongoing pandemic.”
The CovMaT (Coronavirus Mask Testing) process developed by VMRD provides a practical tool for ongoing surveillance that is faster, more economical, and less invasive than standard approaches. At VMRD, early detection of SARS-CoV-2 has prevented workplace spread, and detection of positive samples in masks has shown high correlation with subsequent clinical diagnosis of COVID-19 in associated individuals.
The process starts with obtaining samples from previously worn facemasks according to a novel prescribed procedure that allows sample collection to be performed by the wearer. Samples are then placed into FDA-approved PrimeStore® MTM, a unique inactivation-preservation medium made by Longhorn Vaccine and Diagnostics, to be transported for SARS-CoV-2 testing. The stabilization properties of this sample preparation permit storage for an extended period at room temperature and eliminate the need for biosecurity containment upon arrival at the testing laboratory.
Countries and communities have been significantly impacted socially and economically by quarantines and closures. Improved surveillance methods will greatly aid the efforts of businesses and other institutions to resume operations while still protecting employees and patrons.
“VMRD’s next step is to reach out to businesses and policymakers to see how we can best support our communities,” said Knowles. “We’re all anxious to achieve a new sense of normalcy and we want to be part of the solution.”
Company info
From its site in Pullman, Washington, VMRD develops and manufactures diagnostic test kits and related reagents for distribution in more than 55 countries. As a rapidly growing company VMRD strives to preserve its family-focused culture and core values of integrity and quality. Its mission to provide high quality products, services, and support for customers and a harmonious and rewarding work environment for employees reflects and enforces the company’s market reputation for delivering best in class products with a uniquely personal touch. As a result of this clear focus VMRD has a global impact on improvements in animal welfare through the diagnostic laboratories, animal producers, government agencies and veterinarians who use its products.
Additional information about VMRD CovMaT can be found at vmrd.com/covmat
VMRD Media Contacts:
Donald P. Knowles DVM, PhD
Chief Scientific Officer
Email: covmat@vmrd.com Phone: +1 509-336-4460
Amanda Grimm PSM
Product Manager
Email: covmat@vmrd.com
Phone: +1 509-336-4460
