NAT HIV/HCV kit allows the detection of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) by the Molecular Biology technique for the detection of nucleic acids (NTA) of pathogens transmitted by blood transfusion. From this month, the test began to detect a new pathogen: HBV (hepatitis B virus), transmitted through sexual intercourse, contact with blood and infected sharps.

The technology is part of a Bio-Manguinhos project, Fiocruz, with support from Fiotec. Now the kit is called NAT HIV/HCV/HBV

Efficiency of the Kit

The test uses an automated platform with high processing capability which allows analyzing, at the same time, 552 blood bags by routine, with high sensitivity and traceability for detection of the aforementioned viruses. Since February 2014 the test became mandatory

The technique allows the detection of these pathogens in shorter periods than conventional tests that were used in blood centers.

Hepatitis B

It is estimated that 10 to 30 million people are infected with hepatitis B annually. The data is enough to prove that the disease is considered an epidemic. In Brazil, it is estimated that about 800,000 people have the virus, so it is essential to invest in the early detection of the disease. The unit delivered 968 NAT HIV/HCV/HBV kits in 2014.

Source: Bio-Manguinhos