Using a novel rapid viral test to improve triage of emergency department patients with acute respiratory illness during flu season

Acute respiratory illnesses (ARI) cause significant morbidity and mortality in both adult and pediatric patients, especially during winter months. The most common ARI etiology is viral with influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) accounting for 40% of cases.[1,2] Every year, influenza is estimated to cause 200,000 hospitalizations and 20,000 deaths in the United States, and 250,000 to 500,000 deaths globally.[3 –5] In addition to immunization, early treatment, social distancing, and good hygiene reduce the incidence and severity of disease.[6–8]
Source: Journal of Clinical Virology - Category: Virology Authors: Source Type: research