In direct support of the COVID-19 Pandemic WNYHS has been instructed to increase testing capacity. These reagents and supplies are needed to improve SARS Cov-2 testing capacity. VA WNY HEALTHCARE SYSTEM AT BUFFALO owns the highly specialized Applied Biosystems TAqPATH COVID-19 Instrument. The necessary reagents and supplies required for COVID-19 testing and analysis are provided only by Fisher.
This system is intended for use as the extraction instrument for COVID PCR testing for the Argene assay, to urgently expand our current SARS-CoV-2 test capabilities. Unique characteristics that limit availability to only one source, with the reason no other supplies or services can be used: The system uses easyMAG extraction reagents, magnetic silica and lysis buffer. The system incorporates thorough sample and reagent traceability.
These are to replace the highly accurate radiometersproduced by Eppley Laboratories that PMEL has used for decades after Eppley abruptlystopped manufacturing or repairing instruments during the COVID pandemic.
The government will supply a location with suitable instrument requirements (space, electricity) as needed to operate the instrument. Given COVID restrictions, additional requirements will be in place for entrance to the lab. These will be communicated with the equipment supplier.