Primerdesign, a specialist in gene detection and real-time PCR gene quantification, has introduced a test kit for detecting a drug-resistant strain of the swine-flu virus.
The mutated virus has been identified in isolated cases in both Europe and Asia.
With the widespread use of the Tamiflu drug as a treatment for the disease, it is expected that such strains will spread and become more common.
The new kit is intended to help health organisations and governments track the spread of the mutated virus, enabling them to develop effective strategies for tackling it.
The kit provides results within two hours.
Without it, the process typically takes three days, according to the company.
A first test confirms if a patient sample is positive or negative for swine flu.
The second test determines if the swine flu is a mutant Tamiflu-resistant strain.
Dr Rob Powell from Primerdesign said: 'We have already seen this worst-case scenario emerge with ordinary circulating flu.
'Standard human flu strains are now almost completely resistant to Tamiflu, rendering the drug ineffective.' Dr Jim Wicks, director of the company, added: 'The kit is a crucial weapon in containing the spread of the mutant swine flu.
'Speed of identification is a crucial factor in minimising the impact of the virus.' Primerdesign produces genetic detection kits for numerous other viruses and conditions.
Earlier in the year, the company, founded by Southampton University scientists, developed a DNA test kit for Mexican swine flu.
Primerdesign is part of the university's Setsquared Business Incubation programme, which provides intensive business support to high-technology start-up companies.
One of four centres in southern England, the programme uses in-house expertise and a network of seasoned entrepreneurs, investment advisors, professional services companies and academics to provide the support that emerging technology companies of the future require.
