Andes Hantavirus Real-Time PCR Detection Kit – Research Use Only

Pro-Lab Diagnostics is the exclusive UK distributor for Certest’s VIASURE Andes Hantavirus (ANDV) RT-PCR reagents – a lyophilised, ready-to-use Research Use Only kit for qualitative detection of ANDV RNA in acute-phase whole blood and derivatives.

Andes Hantavirus Outbreak Statistics

Sources: ECDC, WHO Disease Outbreak News (May–June 2026).

The background to the Andes Hantavirus Outbreak

In April 2026, an outbreak of hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) was identified aboard the Dutch-flagged expedition vessel MV Hondius, carrying passengers and crew from 23 countries. The causative pathogen was confirmed as Andes orthohantavirus (ANDV) – the primary agent of HCPS in Argentina and Chile, with a case fatality rate that can exceed 30%.

ANDV is the only hantavirus for which person-to-person transmission has been consistently documented, a feature that distinguishes it from other members of the genus and which drove the international multi-agency response to this event. By late May, more than 600 contacts across 32 countries were under active surveillance or self-monitoring.

Early molecular detection during the acute phase – before seroconversion – is essential for timely isolation, contact tracing, and clinical management.

The Case for Molecular Surveillance

Real-time RT-PCR enables identification of ANDV RNA during the acute phase of infection, ahead of a detectable serological response – a critical window for outbreak control.

VIASURE Andes Hantavirus RT-PCR Detection Reagents – Kit Overview

Manufactured by Certest Biotec (Spain) to ISO 13485. Pro-Lab Diagnostics is the exclusive UK distributor.

Key Features

• One-step real-time RT-PCR – reverse transcription and amplification occur in the same reaction well, reducing hands-on time and contamination risk.
• Lyophilised, stabilised format – transport and storage at room temperature (2–40°C). No cold chain required for shipping.
• Endogenous internal control (EIC) – human β-2-microglobulin (B2M) housekeeping gene monitors RNA extraction integrity and polymerase inhibition in every well.
• Dual-channel detection – ANDV target on FAM; EIC on HEX. Compatible with most major real-time PCR platforms.
• Ready to use — all PCR components (primers, probes, dNTPs, buffer, polymerase, reverse transcriptase) pre-loaded in stabilised format.
• Positive and negative controls included – non-infectious synthetic lyophilised DNA positive control; RNase/DNase-free water negative control.
• Multiple formats – 8-well strips (low and high profile), 96-well plates, and tube format.

Pro-Lab Diagnostics is the UK’s exclusive distributor for Certest microbiology products. Contact our team for pricing, availability, and to request the full instructions for use.