Laboratory Corporation of America (NYSE:LH) announced today that it launched its COVID-19, influenza A/B and RSV diagnostic combo.
The single-panel test is designed to detect multiple types of infections including the novel coronavirus, the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), helping doctors diagnose patients and inform decisions for treatment options.
Burlington, N.C.-based LabCorp’s testing combo is aimed at easing the strain that could be put on the healthcare system in the U.S. if there is a significant flu/RSV season in which the symptoms are similar to COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses, according to a news release.
LabCorp is offering the test through doctors, hospitals and other authorized healthcare providers in the U.S., while the company has submitted an application to the FDA to offer the combined test through its Pixel by LabCorp collection kit to add convenience and accessibility.
The Pixel by LabCorp at-home test is an extension of the company’s COVID-19 Pixel by LabCorp at-home test kit, which uses a short swab inserted into the individual’s lower nostril.
“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,” LabCorp chief medical officer & president Dr. Brian Caveney said in the release. “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.
“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.”
Last week, Roche (SWX: RO,ROG) announced that it received FDA emergency use authorization (EUA) for its for its Cobas SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A/B Test, a similar combination diagnostic.
Filed Under: Infectious Disease
