Accurate testing is needed to distinguish respiratory pathogens, such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, from each other
Molecular testing for respiratory pathogens helps laboratories maximize sensitivity for common viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, flu, and RSV. As the pandemic continues to show signs of unpredictability and volatility, we expect SARS-CoV-2 and its variants to remain with us indefinitely. SARS-CoV-2 now joins the list of respiratory pathogens that pathologists will see in the lab, and influenza and COVID-19 share symptoms, making differential diagnosis even more challenging. With the overlap of symptoms, it is helpful for clinical and public health labs to be equipped with molecular tests that can detect genetic material from multiple respiratory viruses.
Multiplex testing assays allow laboratories to test for multiple infectious disease targets in a single reaction. This helps providers rule out multiple respiratory infections with one patient sample. Adoption of multiplex testing assays has grown over the last few years, most notably as a response to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
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Because a negative doesn't rule out other positives
Expand your testing menu to include additional pathogens. While SARS-CoV-2 and influenza are the most commonly requested respiratory viral tests, there are many additional respiratory pathogens that can cause both upper and lower respiratory tract infections.
Additional pathogens
Viral pathogens
Invade host cells and replicate, producing hundreds and thousands of new viruses that go on to infect more host cells
Bacterial pathogens
Tend to cause more severe illnesses of the respiratory tract, namely pneumonia and tuberculosis
Certain bacterial respiratory infections
Become severe on the basis of other chronic lung diseases such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (i.e., H. influenzae, S. pneumoniae, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa)
Respiratory tract infections
Upper respiratory tract
Infections such as the common cold are usually mild and self-limiting. A small percentage of cases can progress to more severe lower respiratory tract infections such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Lower respiratory tract
The third leading cause of death in the world after heart disease and stroke. They are the leading cause of death in countries of low economic status. [1]
Populations at high risk of severe disease
Very young or elderly individuals
- Due to less-developed or age-related decline in immune function
Individuals living in a tropical region or recently traveled
- Hot, humid regions are more conducive to the growth and proliferation of parasites
- Travel creates exposure to pathogens against which the exposed individual has no immune memory
Individuals of low socioeconomic status
- Due to reduced access to health care programs and other medical resources
- Lack of access to potable water, exposure to wastewater, and cramped living conditions increase the risk of infection
Individuals with underlying medical comorbidities
- The patient may have impaired immune response due to underlying conditions
- Chronic conditions such as HIV/AIDS, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease create greater risk for severe respiratory infections
Respiratory Tract Infections Learning Guide
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Various testing approaches for broader pathogens
Looking to expand your molecular testing menu using the PCR experience you already have? Our respiratory portfolio offers highly sensitive molecular solutions designed for detecting and differentiating between 4 to over 40 respiratory pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi across multiple samples types to meet your lab's needs.
Single or dual analyte testing
Assays built to test for one or two targets (i.e., SARS-CoV-2 and/or flu).
Targeted panels
Assays built to test for two to nine targets that cause overlapping symptoms.
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Syndromic panels
Assays built to test for 10 to 30 targets. Can be customized to the lab's needs.
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Need help finding the right solution?
Expand your molecular testing menu using the PCR experience you already have. Our respiratory portfolio offers highly sensitive molecular solutions for detecting and differentiating between 4 to over 40 respiratory pathogens. Fill out the information below, and a sales representative will reach out.
