A new viral transport medium that enables collection and rapid inactivation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and stabilizes viral RNA at ambient temperature for transportation and use in in vitro diagnostic testing procedures, is now available in Europe.

Thermo Fisher Scientific developed the InhibiSURE Viral Inactivation Medium formula to be non-hazardous. Other inactivation media typically rely on a formulation that is potentially hazardous to inactivate viruses. Many contain a guanidine-based chemical that, if mixed with bleach or strong acids, could release toxic cyanide gas. The use of inactivation medium also removes the need for further inactivation steps, increasing laboratory throughput.

This single-use device, for professional use only, can be used for sampling patients that are suspected of being infected with SARS-CoV-2 or sampling individuals for population screening for SARS-CoV-2.

“As testing demands continue to change dynamically throughout this pandemic, we remain committed to keeping laboratorians safe and protected during the testing process,” said Duncan Porter, general manager, sample collection and transport for Thermo Fisher’s microbiology business. The InhibiSURE Viral Inactivation Medium enables us to support a safe and efficient sample collection and transport process by rapidly inactivating the SARS-CoV-2 virus using a non-hazardous formulation. To broaden the scope of those capabilities, we’ve prioritized the expansion of the range of viruses, as well as the ability to do at-home collection as future developments.”

The product is CE marked but not 510(k)-cleared and not available for sale in the U.S. Availability of product in each country depends on local regulatory marketing authorization status.