New chip can detect bird flu in humans

A new micro-chip has been developed which can scan for bird flu in humans.

The device, called the VereFlu chip, can identify multiple pathogens and genes in a single test within two hours. Previous tests could only check for one strain at a time.

Developed by STMiceelectronics, Europe's top semiconductor maker, in partnership with medical diagnostics specialists Veredus Labratories, the chip is designed to be used outside a laboratory.

Francois Guibert, STMicro's Asia Pacific chief executive, told Reuters: "ST sees new high growth opportunities in the healthcare market, especially in areas like patient care."

Recent figures from the World Health Organisation show that in total 236 people have died from the deadly strain of avian flu.

They are monitoring the H5N1 virus for signs of a mutation into human form but cases so far can be traced to contact with infected birds.

Indonesia is the worst hit country with bird flu, with the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organisation identifying birds in 31 out of 33 provinces being affected.