Clongen Laboratories, LLC to offer Zika, Dengue and Chikungunya virus molecular detection

GAITHERSBURG, Md., May 11, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- With the most recent outbreak of Zika virus and confirmed cases in the Americas, the need for diagnosis can not be overemphasized. The WHO estimates that 3 to 4 million people will contract Zika virus worldwide in the next 12 months and has declared Zika virus infection as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Though no locally transmitted cases have been reported within the United States as of yet, currently close to 500 cases of travel-associated cases have already been reported. Like Dengue and Chikungunya viruses, Zika virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito.  Disease has also recently been confirmed to be transmitted through sexual contact. Urgency to diagnose Zika virus is greatest in pregnant women and women of child-bearing age that are planning to start a family and have travelled to or have a partner who has travelled to areas where Zika virus is known to exist. Microcephaly in newborns born to mothers who were infected with Zika virus while pregnant has been confirmed in 9 countries. Since 2007, Zika virus infections have been reported in 61 countries and territories according to the CDC.

"The fact that most Zika virus infections do not result in symptoms serious enough to seek medical advice highlights the urgency to educate potential Zika virus infection victims to get tested, in particular if they are pregnant mothers or partners of a pregnant mother", said Dr. Ahmed Kilani, President and Laboratory Director at Clongen Labs. Clongen Laboratories offer molecular detection based tests for Zika, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses. All three viruses are transmitted by Aedes species mosquitoes and present with similar symptoms. "The latest test offerings are in line with our long term objectives to stay ahead of the curve and use cutting edge technologies for detection of new and re-emerging pathogens", Kilani added. While serology tests may result in cross reactivity among flaviviruses particularly between Zika and Dengue viruses, molecular diagnostic tools designed to detect highly conserved and specific regions of the viral genomes afford a much greater specificity and sensitivity.

About Clongen Laboratories  

A leader in molecular diagnostics and contract research, Clongen Laboratories is licensed by the state health departments in five states. Since its inception in 1999, the company has steadily expanded its menu offerings. Clongen Laboratories is a pioneer in developing innovative diagnostic tests utilizing rapid highly sensitive detection methods with the goal of improving human and animal health. The company currently has three divisions: Clinical Diagnostics, Contract Research Services and Veterinary Diagnostic Services.

To view the new website and complete test menu, please visit www.clongen.com

For more information on Zika, Dengue and Chikungunya virus testing please visit:
http://www.clongen.com/zika-virus/ 
http://www.clongen.com/dengue-viruses/ 
http://www.clongen.com/chikungunya-virus/

To download the Clinical Test Request Form please visit:
http://www.clongen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Clinical-Test-Request-Form-Clongen-2016.pdf

Contact:    
Dr. Ahmed Kilani, President and Laboratory Director: 301-916-0173 x213
Elena Ralchenko, Office Manager:  301-916-0173 x200, or Toll Free 877-CLONGEN
E-mail: [email protected]

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SOURCE Clongen Laboratories

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http://www.clongen.com