Chembio Diagnostics extends work on rapid flu test

Chembio Diagnostics Inc. announced Monday the continuation of its work to develop a rapid test for the flu.

The Medford-based manufacturer of point-of-care tests for HIV and syphilis said it had signed a follow-on agreement with an undisclosed government contractor to do more work on the flu test. The contractor does work for the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and has worked with Chembio previously.

Officials said the agreement is part of an effort by the federal government to prepare for a potential pandemic of the flu. Chembio has been involved in the project since 2010.

"We are pleased to continue with this development program," said chief executive John J. Sperzel III. He also said the company's testing "technology is ideally suited to rapidly test for multiple influenza immunities, where rapid access to this information can guide treatment decisions and help avert widespread outbreaks."

The announcement came before the stock market opening. In early trading, Chembio shares were up 4 cents, or 1 percent, to $4.40. It is listed on the Nasdaq Market.