The QuickVue RSV and QuickVue RSV 10 Tests

Because RSV and other respiratory viral infections can cause similar clinical symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose RSV based on symptoms alone.  Accordingly, rapid tests such as the QuickVue RSV and QuickVue RSV 10 tests can be very helpful. 

Why test for RSV?

Complications from RSV can be serious, as it is the leading cause of approximately 75% of bronchiolitis cases among infants younger than one year of age.  Further, RSV-related hospitalizations can create significant distress for infants and children, caregivers, and families.  Accordingly, timely steps toward prompt detection are important, as the rapid detection of RSV can aid clinical diagnosis and help guide patient management, including decisions made regarding specific symptomatic therapy.  Additionally, rapid RSV test results can also help decrease the inappropriate use of antibiotics and antivirals.^1,2

From an infection control standpoint, RSV test results can help minimize the spread of RSV among those attending day care facilities, schools, and other public settings, as well as provide guidance with respect to community outbreaks.

QuickVue RSV and QuickVue RSV 10 Tests

QuickVue RSV and QuickVue RSV 10 tests are simple, easy to perform, and accurate tests. The QuickVue RSV test provides rapid results in 15 minutes and the QuickVue RSV 10 test provides results in 10 minutes. Both tests can aid in the detection of RSV in pediatric patients with symptoms.  This helps your child's healthcare provider in making patient management decisions for your child in the same office visit.  Further, a quick and correct diagnosis can help you and your healthcare provider properly care for your child and help him or her recover as quickly as possible.

RSV & Influenza

Influenza-like symptoms can be confused with RSV. In fact one study found that 17% of children suspected of having an RSV infection actually had Influenza A.³ If your healthcare provider is unsure if your baby has an RSV or influenza infection, he or she may test for both viruses. Depending on what type of test is administered, this may require multiple samples from your baby.

However, with the QuickVue RSV and QuickVue Influenza tests, only one sample from your baby is required to run both tests simultaneously. By testing for both viruses, your healthcare provider will be able to determine if your baby has an RSV or influenza infection and will be able to provide the proper form of treatment, which may help prevent your child from being prescribed inappropriate drugs. To learn more about influenza, please visit flutest.com.

 

¹Unger, S., Cunningham, S., Effect of Oxygen Supplementation on Length of Stay for Infants Hospitalized With Acute Viral Bronchiolitis. Pediatrics, Vol. 121, No. 3, March 2008, Pages 470-475.
²Schwartz, R.H., Martin, M. Making the Pediatric Office Laboratory Available and Profitable. (accessed 10/15/2008)
³Friedman, M.J., et al., Influenza A in Young Children with Suspected RSV Infection, Academy of Emergency Medicine, (2003)