New Data Presented Confirms The Efficacy And Value Of Rapid MRSA Detection Te

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The recently launched culture based rapid MRSA test demonstrates continued efficiency and reliability in the fight against Methicillin-resistant Staphyloccocus aureus (commonly referred to as MRSA), according to a UK study presented at the Infectious Diseases Society of America 45th annual meeting1. The study confirms that the 3M BacLite rapid MRSA test provides consistent, fast and accurate results as the first rapid culture test that can effectively and reliably detect the absence of MRSA in just five hours.

The multi-centre study based on results from three hospitals in the United Kingdom processed 458 nasal and groin MRSA screening swabs using the 3M BacLite rapid MRSA test, a five-hour culture-based test that detects the potentially deadly bacteria direct from clinical specimens. Of the 248 nasal screening swabs analysed, results demonstrated a diagnostic sensitivity of 94.6% and a diagnostic specificity of 96.9%. >From the 210 groin swabs, the 3M BacLite rapid MRSA test provided a diagnostic sensitivity of 95.9% and a diagnostic specificity of 88.8%1. The results of this study are supported by additional findings presented at the 2007 Institute of Biomedical Science congress (IBMS) that provides further evidence for the reliability of 3M BacLite rapid MRSA test in low prevalence settings2.

\"We are very excited about these results which represent an important advance in the fight against MRSA,\" said Steve O'Hara, microbiologist and lead author of the study. These results show that the 3M BacLite rapid MRSA test could be a valuable laboratory tool to help hospitals meet tough government targets and control the spread of MRSA\".

MRSA rates in the UK are among the highest in Europe. Each year, healthcare associated infections contribute to 5000 deaths and cost the NHS around ? billion3. Around 15 per cent (?50 million) could be prevented by better application of good practice3. Recent guidelines set by the Department of Health have called for a 50% cut in infections by 2008, a target that is proving difficult to meet. Delays obtaining MRSA screening results have been identified as a major barrier to more effective infection prevention strategies.

The 3M BacLite rapid MRSA test launched earlier this year across Europe is the first rapid culture-based test offering same-day results, providing confirmation of negative results within 5 hours and positive results within 24 hours. Unlike DNA-based tests the 3M BacLite rapid MRSA test does not require a high level of expertise to operate and requires minimal hands-on time, it also has an objective endpoint, which means that the opportunity for error is reduced. Rapid test results should help minimise the disruption and costs associated with antibiotic resistant bacteria like MRSA and most importantly reduce the risk of infection spread to vulnerable patients within healthcare environments.

About 3M Health Care

Since inventing Ioban incise antimicrobial surgical drapes more than 30 years ago, 3M has been a worldwide leader in developing health care products and services that address infection control. 3M Health Care, one of 3M's six major business segments, is dedicated to improving the practice, delivery and outcome of patient care and is a leading provider of solutions for medical, oral care, drug delivery and health information markets.

3M - Practical and ingenious solutions that help customers succeed

3M is a $22.9 billion diversified technology company, creating innovative products that help make the world smarter, faster, healthier and safer. Well known 3M brands include Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate and Scotch-Brite.

3M has pioneered innovation since 1902 and, today, invests more than $1.5 billion a year in R&D. It has applied its expertise in RFID technology to deliver biometric passports; it is using its understanding of the healthcare industry to provide hospitals with infection prevention and detection solutions; and its digital signage offerings are revolutionising the way businesses communicate with their customers, their employees and the general public.

3M employs 75,000 people worldwide to deliver more than 55,000 products to customers in some 200 countries. Its diverse technologies touch nearly every aspect of modern life, serving markets such as consumer and office, display and graphics, electronics and communications, healthcare, industrial and transportation, safety and protection services, and security systems.

The UK and Ireland is home to one of the largest 3M subsidiaries outside the USA, employing 3850 people across 17 locations, including 11 manufacturing sites. Products manufactured in the UK include coated abrasives, respirators, adhesive tapes, industrial microbiology products, drug delivery systems, high-performance coatings, secure documents and passport scanners.

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3M, BacLite, Ioban, Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete, Command and Vikuiti are trademarks of the 3M Company or Acolyte Biomedica Limited.