The nation’s largest testing provider recently introduced a laboratory developed test to help identify patients infected with the novel H1N1 virus and differentiate patients infected with other seasonal influenza A strains. The test was developed by Quest’s infectious disease reference laboratory, Focus Diagnostics, which is based in Cypress, Calif.

The real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was validated using clinical specimens submitted to its reference laboratory confirmed as positive for the novel H1N1 influenza virus by public health authorities. The test will be performed at the Cypress location in accordance with current public health guidelines, according to a company statement. Healthcare providers can order the test directly from focus or through the Quest laboratory network. The company indicates that expected turnaround time for reporting results is within 24 hours of receipt of specimen by the Focus Diagnostics laboratory.

For more on the role of the lab industry during the recent swine flu outbreak, be sure to read the June issue of Laboratory Industry Report.