Thermo Fisher Scientific Receives FDA Clearance for MRSA Test Medium
WALTHAM, Mass., April 3, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE: TMO), the world leader in serving science, announced that it has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance for Spectra™ MRSA, a test designed to screen for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), more commonly known as the "superbug." With the highest Positive Predictive Value commercially available for MRSA screening, Spectra provides accurate results within 24 hours. The Spectra MRSA test is manufactured, distributed and sold under the Thermo Fisher specialty brand, Remel.
MRSA has become a major public health concern, with occurrences on the rise in healthcare facilities nationwide. According to a recent report by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), MRSA is prevalent in 46 of 1,000 patients in the U.S. -- 8 to 11 times higher than previous estimates. Moreover, their findings suggest that MRSA, which is antibiotic-resistant and difficult to treat, may lead to as many as 119,000 patient deaths in U.S. hospitals annually.
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About Remel
Remel, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, is a global provider of a wide range of high quality microbiology products used by clinical, industrial, research, and academic laboratories. We are a world leader in the manufacture and distribution of dehydrated and prepared culture media, collection and transport systems, diagnostic and rapid direct specimen tests, quality control products and much more. An extensive product portfolio, which includes trusted, market-leading names and superior performance, is complemented by a team of experts dedicated to providing the highest levels of technical service and customer support. Our people take great pride in providing quality products, rapid delivery, and superior support and are committed to exceeding customer expectations. Now, as a brand of Thermo Fisher Scientific, the world leader in serving science, we are even better positioned to deliver the science, service, and solutions our laboratory customers need to get the job done.