The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) situated in New Delhi is in the news for all the right reasons. A team of scientists led by Dr. Navin Khanna has developed a kit, which will help in detecting Dengue in a matter of minutes. This low-cost, real-time dengue detection kit called ‘Dengue Day 1’ can detect dengue within 15 minutes after an individual is bitten by Aedes Aegypti, which is the dengue-causing mosquito.

Usually, when a test for dengue is performed, the results can take anywhere from 4 days to 2 weeks. This kit can detect the presence of the dengue virus on day 1 itself.

“The kit can detect dengue in 15 minutes and can also differentiate between primary and secondary dengue virus infections, which is vital for the clinical management of patients. This unique kit can also detect the presence of the virus in a mosquito. It is now being exported to other countries,” Khanna said in an interview to The Times of India.

Dr Khanna was recently awarded the Anjani Mashelkar Inclusive Innovation Award (AIIMA) along with a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh. After receiving the award, Dr Navin said that in 26 years, this is the first time that someone has recognised his contribution, which is very encouraging.

Sharing his views, Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar said, “Social innovation has to lead to inclusion. Hence, connecting the urban and the rural through innovation is very important. Innovation in all sectors is the need of the hour. India has seen a severe spike in deaths caused due to Dengue and keeping this in mind, Dr Khanna’s affordable Dengue test kit is a crucial innovation,” as reported in Hindustan Times.

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