Abbott Laboratories announced that it has been awarded a multi-year contract, which allows Abbott to supply instruments and five infectious disease tests used for screening donated blood to the 76 members of America’s Blood Centers (ABC). The tests consist of markers for hepatitis, HIV and other retroviruses.

"This agreement builds upon our long-standing relationship with the membership of America's Blood Centers, and represents our mutual commitment to ensuring the safety and availability of the blood supply," said Joseph Nemmers, senior vice president, diagnostic operations, Abbott.

All blood donated to the independent members of America's Blood Centers is tested for evidence of exposure to viruses that might cause disease. The new contract includes tests for the following: HIV-1/-2 antibodies, hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B core antibody, hepatitis C and HTLV-I/-II

"America's Blood Centers will continue to have access to Abbott tests and instruments with this contract," said Jim MacPherson, CEO, America's Blood Centers. "In addition, upon US FDA approval for Abbott to market PRISM assays, ABC members will be among the first users of the highly sophisticated PRISM system."

Approximately eight million volunteer blood donors donate about 15 million units of whole blood in the United States each year. The membership of America’s Blood Centers provides nearly half of the nation's blood supply.

Abbott Diagnostics has a strong history of commitment to ensuring the safety of the world’s blood supply. In 1985, Abbott developed the world’s first HIV blood screening test. Founded in 1962, America’s Blood Centers is North America’s largest network of non-profit, community blood centers.