Holy Name successfully tests technology for early virus detection

Partnership with SICPA tests wastewater to mitigate threats from future viruses and variants

Holy Name has successfully tested new technology capable of providing early detection of pathogens in a hospital setting. The test utilized localized wastewater analysis to monitor and protect against the presence of viral contaminants such as COVID-19.

The use of groundbreaking technology that provides early detection of viruses will allow Holy Name’s health practitioners to maintain the highest level of patient safety and quickly enact preparedness plans should any pathogens be detected.

Michael Maron.

“This technology can provide our caregivers with information vital to protecting the health of our patients” Michael Maron, CEO and president of Holy Name, said. “We’re grateful for another tool that can strengthen our fight against COVID-19, and possibly help prevent a future pandemic altogether.”

The test was conducted in partnership with SICPA, a global leader in identification and traceability technologies that has pioneered the use of real-time wastewater analysis to prevent the spread of disease through communities and large transportation hubs like international airports.

Holy Name’s successful application of SICPA technology will support the continued development of processes that automatically monitor for a range of known viruses and rapidly share results with hospital staff. As tested, this localized wastewater analysis system can be deployed to any hospital treatment area and provide detailed information on the presence and concentration of pathogens in less than two hours.

SICPA’s state-of-the-art system can simultaneously detect multiple pathogens, and monitoring parameters can be updated regularly to track new mutations or emerging variants.

“Holy Name stands out as a health care provider that wants to do everything it can to help patients on their health journey, and they actively look for ways to incorporate traditional and innovative therapeutics,” Franck Chartier-Dumas, health security solutions manager at SICPA, stated. “Partnering with a respected health care leader solidifies the importance of utilizing technology to improve and advance public health.”