Companies develop multiplex tests for flu, coronavirus

As flu season approaches, the market is increasing for multiplex molecular tests that can determine which virus has sickened patients with respiratory illness. In the past, clinicians relied heavily on point-of-care rapid antigen tests to detect influenza proteins, but “because symptoms for the coronavirus and the flu can be similar, being able to differentiate between the two will be crucial to properly and quickly care for and manage patients,” according to an article in Modern Healthcare. Companies are ramping up production of multiplex molecular tests that target multiple pathogens and distinguish between respiratory ailments. Such tests also reduce the number of samples collected, minimizing patient discomfort. Multiplex antigen tests are in development but not currently on the market. (Modern Healthcare article, 9/8/20)