Preventing and Diagnosing UTIs

Preventing and Diagnosing UTIs

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections, affecting millions of people each year in the United States. While they can occur in anyone, women are particularly susceptible due to anatomical differences, such as a shorter urethra that allows bacteria to reach the bladder more easily. Men, older adults, and individuals with […]

Rising STI Rates in Summertime

Rising STI Rates in Summertime

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are increasing at an alarming rate worldwide, posing significant public health concerns. Recent data shows that STI cases have surged in many regions, including the Americas and Africa1. Factors such as changing sexual behaviors, decreased condom use, and reduced access to healthcare services contribute to this rise. The increase underscores the […]

Antibiotic Resistance and the Need for Rapid Detection

Antibiotic Resistance and the Need for Rapid Detection

Antibiotic resistance is one of the most significant public health threats today. It occurs when bacteria evolve and become resistant to antibiotics that once killed them. This resistance develops due to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, allowing bacteria to survive and multiply despite treatment. How Does Antibiotic Resistance Happen? Bacteria naturally adapt to their […]

Comprehensive Respiratory Testing for Viral and Bacterial Infections

Respiratory RT-PCR Panels

Respiratory illnesses are surging across the U.S. As of February 21, 2025, the rate of acute respiratory illness leading individuals to seek healthcare remains at a high level, according to the CDC. Nearly 8% of outpatient visits are for flu-like symptoms, the highest flu activity in 15 years (CDC). A high level of acute respiratory […]

COVID-19, Flu, and RSV Continue to Impact Public Health

COVID-19 Flu and RSV

Respiratory viruses COVID-19, Influenza, and RSV share similar symptoms, making accurate testing essential. With current positivity rates for Influenza (31.6%), COVID-19 (4.8%), and RSV (6.8%) (CDC), broad testing helps distinguish between these infections and guide appropriate treatment. Symptoms and Risk Factors While these viruses share overlapping symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath, […]

How Genetic Testing Can Help Predict Opioid Use Disorder Risk

Opioid Use Disorder Risk

AvertD is an FDA-approved genetic test that uses advanced scientific techniques to identify individuals at higher genetic risk for developing opioid use disorder (OUD)1. By analyzing DNA, the test detects 15 specific genetic polymorphisms that may be linked to an increased susceptibility to OUD, including variations in genes related to serotonin, dopamine, and opioid receptors […]

NELC 2024: Don’t Miss Out on the Premier Laboratory Education Innovation Event

NELC 2024

With the Northeast Laboratory Conference (NELC) 2024 just around the corner, the excitement is building! Scheduled for October 15th – 16th at Holiday Inn by the Bay (88 Spring Street Portland, Maine), this premier event is the must-attend gathering for educators, technologists, and education leaders who are passionate about laboratory sciences and services. As the […]

LCMS Testing of Xylazine

LCMS Testing of Xylazine

Xylazine, an approved animal tranquilizer in the U.S., acts as a sedative and analgesic for veterinary use [1]. It is an α-2 adrenoreceptor agonist, detected in the unregulated drug supply throughout the eastern United States and Canada [2]. It has been detected in 91% of fentanyl/ heroin samples in Philadelphia and showed its presence in national […]