Bucks County Biotech Firm Launches COVID-19 Vaccine Test

DOYLESTOWN, PA — A Bucks County biotechnology firm is launching a COVID-19 vaccine test that will determine the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine on recipients.

The COVID-19 Vaccine Immune Response Test was developed by FlowMetric, a life sciences company housed in the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center in Doylestown. The test can purportedly determine if a person generated a positive immune response to the vaccine; measure the strength of a person's immune response to the vaccine; determine the length of a patient's immune response; and determine whether a patient has been previously exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19.

"With repeat testing, the new VaxEffect test will provide you a deep understanding of the state of your patient’s immune response to the COVID-19 Vaccine now and over time," the website reads. "These insights will enable you to make recommendations about remaining vigilant in staying safe from virus exposure and to consider having a booster shot when available."

The test has not been reviewed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration, which determined that "such review or approval is not required," FlowMetric said. Individuals can request the test through their healthcare provider.

FlowMetric is receiving $750,000 in state funding to support the test, State Sen. Steve Santarsiero announced Monday.

The technology will be demonstrated to the media during a press conference planned Tuesday at the tech center at 3805 Old Easton Road in Doylestown.

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