On Oct. 20, 2020, BioReference Laboratories, an OPKO Health company, announced that it was accepting specimens for a new multiplex COVID-19 and influenza test for use by healthcare providers, clinics and health systems throughout the U.S., to aid in the diagnosis of COVID-19 and Influenza A or B (flu).

Differentiating COVID-19 and Influenza A or B infection(s) is especially important, as symptoms of COVID-19 and seasonal respiratory infections can be similar. BioReference offers a multiplex test for COVID-19 and Influenza A and B, using a single sample. This allows for more rapid diagnosis, conserves critical testing supplies, and provides surveillance for flu and COVID-19. Identifying the correct infectious agent, especially in high-risk populations, will allow for early treatment and appropriate management.

The multiplex test may be performed on healthcare provider-collected nasal and nasopharyngeal swab specimens, and self-collected nasal swab specimens collected in a healthcare setting supervised by a healthcare provider.