LYNDHURST, N.J., Nov. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Quest Diagnostics
Incorporated (NYSE: DGX), the nation's leading provider of diagnostic testing,
information and services, today announced that it has developed a diagnostic
test to detect the avian influenza virus and will participate in the
government's preparedness efforts to provide rapid diagnosis and early
surveillance of an outbreak, should the need arise.
Quest Diagnostics has notified physicians and hospitals that it has begun
to offer a gene-based screening test it developed to identify the H5N1 strain
of Influenza A virus, the virus that is responsible for causing "avian flu" in
birds and some humans in certain parts of the world. The test is intended to
help physicians screen patients with a range of flu-like symptoms who may have
been exposed to the virus. Testing is performed on respiratory samples, which
include sputum, swabs and bronchial washes.
Positive results of the screening test would be considered a "presumptive
identification" of avian flu until confirmed by the U.S. Centers for Disease
Control (CDC) or other public health laboratory.
About Quest Diagnostics
Quest Diagnostics is the leading provider of diagnostic testing,
information and services that patients and doctors need to make better
healthcare decisions. The company offers the broadest access to diagnostic
testing services through its national network of laboratories and patient
service centers, and provides interpretive consultation through its extensive
medical and scientific staff. Quest Diagnostics is a pioneer in developing
innovative new diagnostic tests and advanced healthcare information technology
solutions that help improve patient care. Additional company information is
available at: http://www.questdiagnostics.com.
The statements in this press release which are not historical facts or
information may be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking
statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and
outcomes to be materially different. Certain of these risks and uncertainties
may include, but are not limited to, competitive environment, changes in
government regulations, changing relationships with customers, payers,
suppliers and strategic partners and other factors described in the Quest
Diagnostics Incorporated 2004 Form 10-K and subsequent filings.
SOURCE Quest Diagnostics Incorporated
CONTACT:
Laure Park, Investors,
+1-201-393-5030, or
Jennifer Somers, or Gary Samuels,
both for Media,
+1-201-393-5700,
all of Quest Diagnostics
Incorporated