Scientists at Northwestern University have created a rapid Hepatitis C test capable of delivering highly accurate results in just 15 minutes. The tool, which is up to 75% faster than existing rapid diagnostics, marks a major shift in how infections can be detected and treated around the world.

Published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, the device works through the ‘DASH® Rapid PCR System’, analyzing a small whole-blood sample to confirm active hepatitis C virus infection. Its speed allows health workers to diagnose patients and begin treatment in the same clinical visit, removing delays that often prevent timely care.

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Hepatitis C currently affects nearly 50 million people globally and leads to about 242,000 deaths each year, mostly due to liver cirrhosis and cancer. Although effective antiviral treatments exist, many people remain undiagnosed because traditional test results can take several days or weeks.

Independent studies found that the new test showed 100% agreement with major commercial laboratory systems, confirming its reliability and medical accuracy.

Researchers believe this breakthrough can accelerate treatment uptake and support the World Health Organization’s goal of eliminating Hepatitis C as a public health threat by 2030. They say the technology could be especially valuable for clinics and low-resource regions where faster diagnosis can save lives and prevent further spread by linking more people to care without delay.