Pharmacies in the Region of Murcia begin to receive combined covid and flu tests

Pharmacies in the Region of Murcia began this Friday to receive the combined SARS-CoV and influenza A/B antigen tests. Some self-diagnostic tests that allow covid to be detected along with other viral infections such as the flu or respiratory syncytial virus.

The vice president of the Official College of Pharmacists of the Region of Murcia, José Miguel Ruiz, reported that the tests “have begun to be dispensed progressively” and highlighted “their value for early detection” of these pathologies.

Ruiz Maldonado pointed out that they work in the same way as conventional tests widely “used by the population.” The sample can be nasal or saliva, and once obtained, it is mixed with the reagent and placed in the well in the cassette or in the two wells, depending on the type of test. In this case, there are three test lines: one for influenza A, another for influenza B and the third for the detection of the covid virus. 15 or 20 minutes after performing this operation, the results are checked and it is known if it comes out positive for a virus, depending on the test line that is highlighted on the cassette.

The vice president of Cofrm stated that he will continue to help citizens by informing “about the correct use of the test.” In addition, he added that they will also guide the population on “how to act according to the result.” In the case of covid infection, “the person must isolate themselves and contact their health center”, while if they are positive for the flu, “help can be offered to alleviate their symptoms.”

Like the antigen tests, they can only be purchased at pharmacies, without a prescription and with a maximum retail price of 2.94 euros.