Company’s technical, scientific expertise applied to fight the virus in Austria
Erber Group, which includes Biomin and Romer Labs, has used its technical and scientific expertise to expand testing for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Austria.
Working with the University Medical Clinic in Tulln, Austria, Erber Group researchers use polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a methodology routinely used in molecular biology, to develop solutions for a safer, more sustainable food system. PCR testing is also used to test for coronavirus. To date, nearly 1,500 tests for COVID-19 have been conducted, after the number of cases started to rise in mid-March.
Feed Strategy recently asked a company spokesperson to talk more about Erber Group’s efforts to fight COVID-19.
Feed Strategy: How did Erber Group get involved with COVID-19 testing?
Erber Group: Our research teams at Biomin and throughout Erber Group are in close contact with other research institutions across the world and in local communities. The Biomin Research Center is just a short walk from the Tulln Medical Clinic.
FS: What did the company do to help expand testing for the virus?
EG: Providing lab space, access to equipment and materials, sharing know-how and processing thousands of samples were all a part of the effort. We’re proud of the ERBER Group researchers who volunteered their time to processing samples and sharing their know-how with the Tulln Medical Clinic’s team.
FS: Is the technology being used new or has it been adapted from some other use?
EG: These are standard methods and processes using PCR – a widespread analytical technology for COVID testing.
FS: Who is using the testing system now and how widely is it used?
EG: The Tulln Medical Clinic continues to support the local hospital network with COVID testing, now with greater capacity than ever. The actual case numbers in Austria have declined significantly.
View our continuing coverage of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
