What are the benefits of the multiplex test?
The multiplex test serves as a single test to distinguish between COVID-19, the flu, and RSV infection. This allows healthcare professionals to diagnose infection caused by these viruses since they have similar symptoms, and it is often difficult to tell the difference based on symptoms alone. This allows for specific treatment and recommendations for next steps in care.
The test also benefits laboratories by allowing them to process more tests. This saves important testing materials that are in short supply.
Results from this testing allows public health officials to track cases of the flu while also testing for COVID-19. This gives them important information they need in their efforts to control the spread of COVID-19 and the flu, including prevention steps that should be taken.