Cutting down on contamination

A Midlands company says its medical device could cut contamination

Malvern Medical Developments says that its Oracol Plus device could revolutionise the way viruses and infections are identified. The disposable saliva collection device overcomes the risk of possible contamination, by reducing the number of operations needed to collect a sample. “We have tried to take out the parts that may contaminate the saliva sample and create aerosols,” said Peter Broadbent, managing director. “This has involved a complete redesign of both the swab and container.” He says the product is now easy and safe to use and – thanks to the redesigned break-off feature of the handle – gives the laboratory a safe sample to manage. The company is a finalist in the Lord Stafford Awards, which showcases West Midlands companies who have worked with universities and innovation programmes to develop new products and processes. Winners are announced later this month. More details appear in Eureka's December feature on Medical.