An innovative 15-minute blood test which can fast-track the diagnosis of children with potentially life-threatening conditions has been trialled by the NHS in Liverpool.
The blood test can distinguish between bacterial or viral infections much more quickly than traditional tests, so serious diseases such as sepsis or meningitis can be picked up sooner.
NHS England has funded a trial of the technology in three hospitals, including Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, and doctors say it could make a “vital difference” to the care of children.
The study looking at the MeMed BV test is led by the University of Liverpool and Health Innovation North West Coast with funding provided through NHS England’s Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) Healthcare, which aims to accelerate adoption of innovations into healthcare.
Our study is investigating whether this definitive test for a bacterial or viral infection will be useful in helping doctors make faster decisions and reducing the use of unnecessary antibiotics.
Professor Enitan Carrol
University of Liverpool