Donor Screening
MPX
The ability of a new generation commercial, multiplex, multi-dye test from Roche, the cobas TaqScreen MPX test, version 2.0, to detect and identify occult HBV infections was evaluated using routine donor samples from Kaohsiung Blood Bank, Taiwan. A total of 5973 samples were tested by nucleic acid amplification technology (NAT); 5898 in pools of six, 66 in pools of less than six and nine samples individually. The results indicated that all eight donors had an occult HBV infection with viral loads has an advantage over the current Roche blood screening test.
DPX
The cobas TaqScreen DPX Test incorporates the use of multiple dyes which allows for the simultaneous detection of individual targets.
- Detects B19V genotypes 1, 2, and 3, and hepatitis A genotypes I, II and III
- Broad linear dynamic range across 7 logs of concentration for parvovirus B19
- B19V titer limits adjustable, based on pool size, to appropriately prompt pool deconstruction
- Utilizes a WHO traceable international standard to provide quantitative results for B19V
WNV
West Nile virus is a single-stranded RNA virus that causes West Nile fever. It is a member of the family Flaviviridae, from the genus Flavivirus, which also contains the Zika virus, dengue virus, and yellow fever virus.
Laboratory diagnosis is generally accomplished by testing of serum or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to detect WNV-specific IgM antibodies. Immunoassays for WNV-specific IgM are available commercially and through state public health laboratories.
ZIKA
Zika virus disease is caused by a virus transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, which bite during the day.
An increased risk of neurologic complications is associated with Zika virus infection in adults and children, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, neuropathy and myelitis. Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito
BABESIA
Babesia is a parasite and won’t respond to antibiotics alone. Treatment requires antiparasitic drugs, such as those used for malaria. Atovaquone plus azithromycin is used to treat most mild to moderate cases and is usually taken for 7 to 10 days. An alternative regimen is clindamycin plus quinine. Because Babesia parasites infect red blood cells, babesiosis can cause hemolytic anemia (from the destruction of red blood cells).
As the infection progresses, you may develop chest or hip pain, shortness of breath, and drenching sweats.
