MeMed develops first-ever fingerstick host-response test for rapid differentiation between bacterial and viral infections
Designed for use in decentralized, CLIA-waived settings, the test has been analytically verified in a study to deliver results comparable to standard laboratory methods
25 Jul 2025
MeMed, a global leader in host-response diagnostics, has announced the development of MeMed BV Flex™*, an innovative, next-generation test designed to expand the reach of MeMed BV® into decentralized, CLIA-waived settings. The test enables accurate differentiation between bacterial and viral infections in just 15 minutes using only a few drops of capillary blood from a finger prick.
The new test was verified in a prospective analytical study, demonstrating performance comparable to advanced laboratory methods. In the published study1, capillary and venous blood measurements showed high concordance across all host proteins as well as the MeMed BV score, indicating strong agreement between sample types.
The test runs on an enhanced version of MeMed’s existing platform, designed to support rapid, near-patient use. Following initial dialogue with the FDA, a multi-center pivotal study is underway to confirm clinical accuracy and support regulatory submission.
“Accurately and simultaneously measuring multiple proteins from just a few drops of blood, in a rapid and easy-to-use format, has been a long-standing challenge,” said Eran Eden, Ph.D., Co-founder and CEO of MeMed.
“By pairing this breakthrough with machine learning, we’ve enhanced our platform which, once cleared, can help extend host-response testing across broader decentralized use. It’s a major step toward our next goal of reaching one million patients and enables a plug-and-play engine for our broader pipeline, from MeMed Severity to future sepsis and immune-status assays,” he added.
“Running MeMed BV Flex from a simple finger stick will make advanced host-response testing more widely accessible, not just for pediatric patients, but also in decentralized settings,” said Adam Singer, M.D., Vice Chairman for Research, Department of Emergency Medicine at Stony Brook University. “It means fewer venipunctures for children, faster answers for seniors, and smarter antibiotic use across the board. This breakthrough will empower care providers to distinguish bacterial from viral infections in real time.”
*MeMed BV Flex has not been approved for sale by any regulatory authority.