A Singapore life sciences company said on Thursday that it has developed a portable test-kit, which can identify the swine flu virus in two hours.

According to TV broadcaster Channel News Asia's report, the test-kit, which named Vereflu, is able to identify and differentiate all human strains of influenza in a single test, and it is portable and can be used outside the traditional laboratory environment to perform tests.

Each Vereflu test will cost between US$100 and US$180. The producing company Veredus Laboratories said that it has received orders from at least six countries.

Singapore's Ministry of Health on Thursday upgraded the Disease Outbreak Response System Alert status from "Yellow" to "Orange," even though there are no swine flu cases detected in the city-state yet.

Also on Thursday, Singapore Airlines has increased its vigilance against swine flu. Pamphlets containing a list of frequently-asked-questions on swine flu are distributed on flights to and from the affected areas prior to departure. Health kits containing a thermometer, masks and antiseptic towels, are also provided to all customers on board flights to the United States.