Swine flu, also known as Influenza A (H1N1), is one of the most spreading viruses worldwide. It originally came into notice as a pig-to-human-transmitted virus, but in 2009 it marked a red flag all over the globe. Last year, another outbreak of the zoonotic influenza occurred.
In 2023 they did not transmit easily from person to person, although we never know when this may change, and therefore must be ever-ready for a pandemic, quoted the news 2023: outbreaks of swine influenza published by WHO.
The outbreak of swine flu has been annual since then, with its primary target on vulnerable population groups consisting of children, old-aged people, and individuals whose immune systems have weakened. Awareness of swine flu testing is the key to timely diagnosis and treatment.
In this blog, we will get to know about the evolving flu. What are the symptoms? When do you need swine flu testing? What is PCR and POCT tests? how each test is done? Keep scrolling!
Common Symptoms and When to See a Doctor
Swine influenza has all the symptoms of seasonal flu, so it is hard to know whether it is swine flu without proper tests. It can manifest with the following symptoms:
- High fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Vomiting or diarrhea
If one develops such symptoms within the flu season or once exposed to an individual who has been diagnosed with swine flu, then it is very significant to report to a professional medical officer.
To all the people belonging to the higher risk group categories like pregnant women, patients suffering from chronic diseases, and anyone whose immune system has weakened, the moment they feel that they have contracted swine flu, they should immediately visit a doctor. Early treatment and confirmation of swine flu can prevent complications and the appropriate treatment of the patient.
Types of Tests Available for Swine Flu
There are two types available; they include molecular tests and rapid antigen tests, both serve different purposes and various advantages based on the setting and the speed required for diagnosis.
1. Molecular Tests
These can include traditional reverse-transcriptase PCR, rapid molecular tests available in clinics, and multiplex platforms that detect not only influenza but also various other respiratory pathogens. RT-PCR provides the highest accuracy in terms of sensitivity and specificity.
The Gold Standard: RT-PCR
For pathogen testing, viral nucleic acid detection is performed using RT-PCR (preferably real-time RT-PCR) to identify the H1N1 influenza virus in respiratory specimens
Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR combines the sensitivity, speed, and specificity of traditional PCR technology with the high sensitivity and precise quantification of spectroscopic techniques. It offers strong specificity, high sensitivity, excellent reproducibility, accurate quantification, rapid processing, and a fully enclosed reaction system, making it highly efficient.
2. Rapid Antigen Tests
Point-of-care devices are where one would commonly use rapid antigen tests because they require little hands-on time and are very fast. Such tests can detect viruses on nasal or throat swabs, giving results within 15-30 minutes. They tend to be less sensitive than molecular tests, increasing the chances of false negatives. Good enough for immediate screenings, the rapid tests can be conducted at clinics or used in mass testing campaigns in situations that require quick results.
EDAN CL30 Molecular Diagnostic Analysis System – High Precision for Clinical & Laboratory Detection
The EDAN CL30 fully automated nucleic acid detection analyzer extends the convenience of point-of-care testing (POCT) with cutting-edge technology.
Designed to provide rapid and precise molecular diagnostics, the CL30 is capable of detecting H1N1 swine flu, alongside other key respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, influenza A/B, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
With an impressive processing speed of up to 200 tests per hour, the CL30 ensures quick results when it matters most. Whether for large-scale screening or urgent clinical needs, CL30 continues to practice reliable, high-sensitivity testing to safeguard patient health.
Conclusion
Since swine flu continues to affect worldwide populations, one should always be alarmed. In many cases, early detection means better and more timely treatment.
Influenza is of endless changes, whose outbreaks are always followed by tears and death, causing unpredictable losses. EDAN has been advancing its technology. For decades, they have been updating their product line and rolling out innovative clinical and laboratory detection equipment of different categories. Stay tuned. Let’s fight against the startling outbreaks!
