Why do we distinguish between these viruses?
The symptoms caused by influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 are similar, but the treatment methods are different, this kit can qualitatively detect ORF1ab gene of 2019 Novel Coronavirus, M1 gene or NS1 gene of Influenza Virus and F gene of RSV and help clinicians prescribe the suitable treatment protocol.
The shelf life of this kit is 9 months when stored in freezer at -(20±5) ℃.
The limit of detection for 2019-nCoV is 100 copies. mL-1, the limit of detection for influenza virus is 400 copies.mL-1and the limit of detection for RSV is 200 copies.mL-1.
There are no cross-reactivities with other viruses that infect the same position of the body or have similar infectious symptoms (e.g. Human coronavirus 229E, Human coronavirus OC43, Human coronavirus HKU1, Human coronavirus NL63, SARS-coronavirus, MERS-coronavirus, Adenovirus, Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), Parainfluenza virus 1-3, Enterovirus, Rhinovirus, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenza, Legionella pneumophila, Streptococcus pneumonia, Streptococcus pyogenes, Bordetella pertussis and Mycoplasma pneumonia).
A respiratory tract infection is an infection of the lungs, airways, sinuses, or throat. While respiratory infections occur year-round, there is a significant increase in these infections during the fall and winter months (cold and flu season) when people tend to spend more time inside, During cold and flu season, it helps to know the common symptoms and how to avoid spreading illness to those around you.
With the increasing cases of COVID-19, understanding the difference between common respiratory infections and your treatment options is even more important.
What is the difference between the flu, COVID-19, and RSV?
The flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are all highly contagious respiratory infections caused by viruses The flu by influenza virus, COVID-19 by SARS-CoV-2 virus, and RSV by respiratory syncytial virus. It is possible for a person to be infected with multiple viruses at the same time.
What causes the Influenza?
The flu is caused by the influenza virus and spreads easily during the winter months when people spend time together indoors. There are many strains of influenza virus, and the virus can change from year to year, which is why you should get a flu vaccine each year.
What causes COVID-19?
COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2, a new coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses named for their corona-like shape. Sometimes, the general term “coronavirus” is used with COVID-19, but this is technically incorrect because there are many types of coronaviruses in this family, including SARS-CoV-1 which emerged in 2002 and other coronaviruses that commonly infect humans. While a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 is not yet available, several candidate vaccines are in development.
What causes RSV?
RSV is caused by the respirtatory syncytial virus is a highly contagious virus that can infect children and adults. In dults and older children, RSV is typically a mild illness very similar to the common cold. In infants and the elderly, the symptoms can be more severe.
What are the symptoms of the flu, COVID-19, and RSV?
The flu and COVID-19 share very similar symptoms, and it might be hard to tell which of the two you have. It can take longer for people infected with SARS-CoV-2 to show symptoms and people stay infectious longer than with the flu. A symptom that seems to be unique to COVID-19 is loss of taste or smell.
Both viruses can cause: Fevers, Chills, Headaches, Cough,Muscle soreness, Fatigue, Vomiting, Diarrhea,Shortness of breath,Runny nose and Sore throat.
RSV can infect anyone, but is most dangerous in infants and the elderly. Its symptoms are similar to those of the common cold. They tend to run their course with only mild intensity in adults and older children. In infants and elderly, symptoms tend to be more severe, and can include fevers and wheezing. Some cases may require hospitalization, but most infections run their course within 1 to 2 weeks. A baby contracting RSV may require a lot of attention until recovery. However, be on the lookout for serious symptoms that can indicate a need for emergency treatment. If your baby is unusually tired, breathing rapidly or has bluish fingernails, call 911 or go to the ER immediately.
How do I determine if I have COVID-19 or the flu?
Since the symptoms are so similar, the best way to accurately determine whether you have COVID-19 or the flu is to get tested. COVID-19, Flu, RSV Combined PCR Test The COVID-19,Influenza and RSV combined PCR Test is an option if you would like to determine what type of infection you have. The test determines when you are currently infected with SARS-CoV-2, influenza A/B, and/or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and is available through doctors, hospitals, and other authorized healthcare providers nationwide.