LiDCO notes increased sales demand in China amid virus outbreak

AIM-listed LiDCO, a supplier of hemodynamic equipment, said on Monday that its Chinese distribution partner has recently sold "a small number" of monitors in Wuhan, China, as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak.

A number of LiDCO rapid monitors had already been installed in the city before the outbreak and the recent purchase is to provide additional intensive care monitoring capabilities to treat the most acute cases of the infection.

LiDCO said it has fully assessed the impact of the outbreak on its supply chain and is satisfied that its inventory levels and forward purchases of monitors "would support a certain amount of above forecast demand should it arise in areas affected by Covid-19".

The company is in touch with healthcare institutions in several of the affected areas and said it is prepared to be flexible in its approach to meet any short-term increased monitoring needs.

Chief executive officer Matt Sassone said: "The proportion of patients who are admitted to intensive care following Covid-19 infection remains low, however, there is significant clinical evidence that the use of advanced hemodynamic monitoring for patients in intensive care is clinically beneficial.

"Whilst the board doesn't anticipate changing expectations at this time, the company is prepared to support customers should they face an increased demand for intensive care."

LiDCO supplies non-invasive and minimally-invasive hemodynamic equipment to hospitals used to monitor the amount of blood flowing around the body and ensure that vital organs are adequately oxygenated.

At 1000 GMT, the shares were up 10.5% at 5.80p, bucking the broader trend of heavy losses.