Amid the growing threat of bird flu, which has killed hundreds of birds and spread to some mammals, a global research team has developed an advanced diagnostic kit for the detection of the H5N1 avian influenza virus (AIV).

Amid the growing threat of bird flu, scientists have developed a new advanced diagnostic kit 'Steadfast'. The kit is the result of a joint initiative of Singapore's Science, Technology and Research Agency's (A-STAR) Diagnostics Development Hub (DXD Hub) and researchers from Japan.

'Steadfast' kit has been able to rapidly differentiate between highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus (HPAI) and less pathogenic avian influenza virus (LPAI). Unlike traditional methods that take two to three days to get results, the kit can accurately detect the virus in just three hours.

The A-Star team has described it as a significant breakthrough in pandemic preparedness. This kit not only helps in identifying the virus but will also help in timely monitoring and strengthening biosecurity measures in migratory birds and poultry farms.

In recent times, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has caused mass deaths in chickens and wild birds. The dreaded virus has also affected mammals such as cats, cattle and seals. This has increased the risk of spreading epidemics. Dr. Onuma Manabu of Japan's National Environmental Studies Institute (NIES) said that the virus is mutating rapidly, making it more challenging to control. He termed Steadfast as an effective surveillance system to prevent infection.

According to

the scientists, timely detection of the virus can increase surveillance of migratory birds and strengthen biosecurity in poultry facilities. This will help prevent potentially devastating pandemics and reduce the risk of infection. The 'Steadfast' kit can add a new chapter in the monitoring and control of bird flu, which will help in keeping not only birds but also human health safe.