This diagnostic tool serves as a point-of-care assay designed to detect influenza A and influenza B viral antigens in nasal swab, nasopharyngeal swab, or nasal wash/aspirate specimens. It offers a quick method to aid in the diagnosis of influenza infections, providing results typically within minutes, enabling prompt clinical decision-making. The device utilizes immunoassay technology, relying on antigen-antibody reactions to identify the presence of the virus.
The availability of rapid influenza diagnostics significantly impacts patient management during influenza season. Early and accurate identification of influenza allows healthcare professionals to prescribe antiviral medications appropriately, potentially reducing the severity and duration of illness. Historically, clinical diagnosis of influenza alone proved unreliable due to overlapping symptoms with other respiratory illnesses. These tests have streamlined the diagnostic process, contributing to improved patient outcomes and public health efforts to control influenza outbreaks.
