Novacyt SA (AIM:NCYT, OTC:NVYTF, EPA:ALNOV) said it has had a seventh COVID-19 test approved by the UK Health Security Agency.
The genesig Covid-19 3G Real-Time PCR test has been approved in the UK and added to the Coronavirus Test Device Approvals (CTDA) register of approved products, the company noted.
The genesig test, which was given its CE mark in Europe last year, is designed to detect three separate SARS-CoV-2 gene targets - ORF1ab, M gene, and S genes - from patient samples.
Novacyt noted that the COVID-19 pandemic had shown how mutations with biological significance within the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 required tests for more than one gene target at a time.
In a statement, Novacyt acting chief executive James McCarthy said: “We believe the ability of our COVID-19 3G test to simultaneously target three separate genes within SARS-CoV-2 provides a highly accurate option for detection. This latest approval ensures we are well-positioned with our consolidated COVID-19 portfolio for any potential future outbreaks and as we continue to focus on our wider diagnostic product offering as part of our growth strategy."
Shares in the company fell and then rose on Tuesday morning, up 0.7% at 72p by mid-morning.