P073-C (RSV) Respiratory Syncytial Virus Rapid Test

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory tract infections, particularly in the lower respiratory tract, and is the leading reason for hospital visits among infants and young children. High-risk groups, including premature infants (gestational age <35 weeks), those with congenital heart defects (CHD), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and chronic lung disease are particularly vulnerable to severe complications such as severe lung infections and hospitalization. 

Currently, prophylactic treatment options, such as Palivizumab, are available to prevent RSV infections in high-risk infants, including those born prematurely, with CHD, BPD, or congenital lung malformations. However, therapeutic options for RSV infection are limited to supportive care, such as continuous positive airway pressure (C-PAP), including oxygen therapy.

The seasonality of RSV varies by climate, in temperate regions, infections peak during the winter months, whereas in tropical areas, the highest prevalence occurs during the rainy season. Due to the nonspecific early symptoms, which often mimic those of the common cold, it can be challenging to diagnose RSV infection based on the symptoms alone.

The Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Rapid Test detects qualitatively the virus in nasal, throat, or nasopharyngeal swabs. The test utilizes RSV-specific antibodies to identify RSV antigens and provide result within 10 minutes. Rapid detection facilitates early diagnosis and enables timely and appropriate treatment.