In the field of virology, where the ever-evolving nature of influenza presents a perpetual challenge, a new entity emerges on the horizon: Flu A & B. This enigmatic term encapsulates a rampant growth in research field, heralding potential shifts in our understanding of influenza’s intricacies and its implications for public health.
What is Flu A & B?
Influenza A and influenza B are two types of viruses that cause seasonal flu outbreaks in humans. They belong to the Orthomyxoviridae family and are responsible for most flu cases each year. Both influenza A and influenza B viruses can cause similar symptoms, as they are both responsible for the flu. The symptoms of influenza A and B are indistinguishable from each other. These symptoms can vary in severity and may include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, headache, runny or stuffy nose, nausea, and vomiting.
Both influenza A and B viruses can lead to complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems. Complications may include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, exacerbation of chronic medical conditions (such as asthma or heart disease), and in severe cases, organ failure and death.
Moreover, influenza viruses cause epidemics and pandemics and can escalate every year. This can result in high rate of hospitalisation among susceptible community, which in turn places economic burdens on families and society. The effects of influenza epidemics and pandemics can be more serious in developing countries due to resource scarcity and deprivation in health and nutrition funding. Thus, early diagnosis plays a is critical in breaking the viral transmission chain. Speedy identification of an infected person and subsequent tracing recent close contacts have proven to be the key in epidemic control and sealing off the cluster from the populace. Rapid Test Kits (RTK) have emerged as a useful tool to aid in the clinical diagnosis of Flu A and B.
Why Rapid Test Kits (RTK)?
A RTK is a medical diagnostic test that is quick and easy to perform. Rapid test kits are characterised by their speed, simplicity, and ease of use, often providing results within minutes. They are commonly used as point-of-care testing in various healthcare settings. ProDetect® Flu A & B Rapid Test Kit is a rapid immunochromatographic test for the qualitative screening of influenza A and influenza B viruses. ProDetect® Flu A & B test kit offers high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in detecting both Influenza A and B samples. A distinct line at the “A” test region indicates presence of influenza A virus, while a line in the “B” test region identifies influenza B virus infection. This dual-line outcome enables swift differentiation, aiding healthcare professionals in tailoring targeted treatment based on the detected virus strain. Likewise, the ProDetect® Flu A & B test kit also features a user-friendly layout to minimise error risk by using simple test protocols and clear instructions for medical professionals.
In conclusion, timely and accurate diagnosis of influenza is paramount for effective management and containment of the virus, particularly during seasonal outbreaks or public health emergencies. To learn more about ProDetect® Flu A & B rapid test kit and how to incorporate it into your healthcare practice or facility, please do not hesitate to contact Mediven today to secure your supply of Influenza rapid test kits and join us in the fight against influenza. Together, we can work towards safeguarding public health and promoting well-being in our communities.
* To know more about ProDetect® Flu A & B Rapid Test Kit, kindly visit the following link: https://mediven.com.my/product-category/prodetect-rapid-test-kits/prodetect-flu-a-b-rapid-test/
