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(CNN) – A new test could be a breakthrough in the fight against Ebola. San Diego company Genalyte has developed a rapid response blood test which can detect the deadly virus in 10 minutes.
"Our technology is substantially more accurate and more sensitive than any other rapid test," said Genalyte founder and CEO Cary Gunn.
The technology is slightly larger than a credit card. Blood is drawn up a small straw over a small silicone chip at the top of the card, which can detect virus and proteins as they bind to the chip.
The tests are most effective within 8-10 days after someone contracts Ebola, which does leave some wiggle room for infected passengers to test negative.
"You can't close the window to zero days. There's time between the infection and when it's detectable," said Gunn.
The company is awaiting approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to start sending it to West Africa, the area hardest hit by Ebola.
"We're ready to start supplying this as soon as we get approval," said Gunn.
These chips also detect other disease like malaria.