The Influenza A & B Ag Rapid Test is an in vitro immunochromatographic assay for the qualitative detection of influenza A and B nucleoprotein antigens in nasopharyngeal (NP) swab, nasal swab, and nasal wash/aspirate specimens. It is intended to aid in the rapid differential diagnosis of influenza A and B viral infections.

Influenza, known as “the flu”, is an acute and highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract. The causative agents of the disease are immunologically diverse, single-strand RNA virus known as influenza viruses. There are three types of influenza viruses: A, B and C. Type A viruses are the most prevalent and are associated with most serious epidemics, while Type B infection is generally milder. Type C viruses have never been associated with a large epidemic of human disease. Both type A and B viruses can circulate simultaneously, but usually one type is dominant during a given season and particular epidemic area. The disease is easily transmitted through coughing and sneezing of aerosolized droplets containing live virus. Influenza outbreaks normally occur each year during fall and winter seasons. Rapid diagnosis of influenza infection will help healthcare professionals to treat patients and control the disease more efficiently and effectively.