The Legiorapid is a joint project between the Technical University of Dresden, Technical University of Munich, the Bavarian State Office for Health and Food Safety, and the Association of German Engineers (VDI)
The Legiorapid is a joint project between the Technical University of Dresden, Technical University of Munich, the Bavarian State Office for Health and Food Safety, and the Association of German Engineers (VDI)
Its goal is to evaluate different Legionella rapid tests and to develop standardized protocols and guidelines for the analysis of process water (e.g. cooling tower). This will open up a new possibility to use these methods as quantitative or qualitative screening tools to improve risk assessment and management.
The rqmicro.COUNT was installed in the laboratory of Dr Michael Seidel at the Technical University of Munich for its evaluation as part of this project. In his lab, the group of Dr Seidel will validate 2 instruments, the Legiotyper and the rqmicro.COUNT. Although both devices deliver results within approximately 2 hours, they serve different purposes. The Legiotyer uses a microarray disc to define the specific Legionella serogroup as it is present in a water sample above a certain threshold, while the rqmicro.COUNT uses a microfluidic cartridge to purify and quantify intact Legionella cells. Due to that, the main application for the Legiotyper will be the identification of potential sources of Legionella outbreaks, while the rqmicro.COUNT will be used as a routine screening tool to define Legionella levels in water systems to ensure water safety.
We are very proud to be part of this project, and we are looking forward to working with all projects partners to develop solutions that help keep water safe and people healthy.
Read more about the project HERE.