Methods and Devices for Real-Time Diagnostic Testing (RDT) for Ebola and other Infectious Diseases

Abstract

Methods, devices, systems, and kits for use in detecting and measuring infectious diseases are provided. In particular embodiments, methods, devices, systems, and kits for detecting and measuring Ebola virus, including Ebola Zaire strain virus, are provided. Devices and systems may be used within regions suffering from Ebola or other infections, providing local, rapid, and effective diagnosis of infectious diseases such as Ebola, improving treatment and reducing or preventing spread of such infectious diseases.

1 - 38 . (canceled) 
     
     
         39 . A method for detecting the presence of a virus, the method comprising:
 collecting a fingerstick blood sample from a finger of a subject into a container containing a preservative to avoid sample degradation by ribonuclease;   performing a nucleic acid assay for detecting the presence of, or measuring the amount of, the virus in said fingerstick blood sample obtained from a subject suspected of suffering from the viral disease.   
     
     
         40 . The method of  claim 39  wherein the preservative comprises lithium chloride. 
     
     
         41 . The method of  claim 39  wherein the preservative comprises iodoacetic acid. 
     
     
         42 . The method of  claim 39  wherein the preservative comprises lithium chloride and iodoacetic acid. 
     
     
         43 . The method of  claim 39  where said performing comprises processing the fingerstick blood sample to extract RNA for the subsequent pre-amplification reaction followed by isothermal amplification and detection.