This single test promises to detect for COVID-19, flu and RSV

RALEIGH — North Carolina-based LabCorp has announced it is rolling out a new test that will simultaneously detect for COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

The announcement comes ahead of the anticipated dual threat of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and upcoming flu season.

“The U.S. is facing the most challenging health crisis in a century and is about to enter flu season, which has the potential to put additional strain on our healthcare system and cost lives,” Dr. Brian Caveney, chief medical officer and president of LabCorp Diagnostics, said in a statement.

The single-panel test will be able to detect multiple types of infections, help doctors diagnose patients and make decisions about treatment options.

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“Individuals infected with COVID-19, influenza A/B, or RSV, often experience similar symptoms of cough, fever, chest tightness, and body aches, providing a potential surge of patients seeking testing,” Caveney said. “Leveraging our scientific and technological expertise to simultaneously test for four major respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, will provide doctors a simple, efficient way to diagnose their patients.”

The test is available to patients through their healthcare provider. LabCorp has also submitted an application to the FDA in order to offer the test as part of its at-home test collection.

Officials said the at-home test would use a short swab that goes into the patient’s nose.

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