Rapid Diagnostic Testing Devices

The Deki reader is a handheld device that enables the performing of rapid diagnostic testing for the Ebola virus, HIV and malaria. Developed by the Toronto-based Fio Corporation with the help of a handsome grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the gadget can be used with minimal training and provides quick-turnaround tests as well as reliable data collection and transmission.

The handheld contraption works in conjunction with conventional rapid diagnostics test assays -- a tiny blood sample is placed on the test strip and inserted into the Deki reader for analysis. Within a matter of minutes, test results flash on the screen while medical data is uploaded to a cloud database, where it is accessible to public health authorities and researchers. The process of uploading, organizing and conveying medical data is managed through the Fio Corporation's "Fionet" mobile software, which connects mobile diagnostic devices with web-based tools.

With its ability to speed up diagnostics testing without compromising on test accuracy -- whilst also improving the quality of medical data -- the Deki reader is revolutionizing the way public health authorities in underdeveloped countries respond to major epidemics, which require quick and decisive action.