Here are some of the latest health and medical news developments, compiled by the editors of HealthDay:
First Commercial Zika Test Approved by FDA
The first commercial test to diagnose Zika virus was approved Thursday by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The test from Quest Diagnostics uses the same method that government labs use to check for Zika virus in a person’s blood, NBC News reported.
Currently, it can be difficult for people who think they are infected with Zika to get tested. Their doctors have to send samples to local or state health departments.
With the FDA approval, doctors will be able to order the $500 test through Quest. The company said results can be available three to five days after a sample arrives, NBC News reported.
The company will charge $120 for patients who don’t have health insurance and whose health providers verify the patient is eligible for the lower price.
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