This test is now available in pharmacies in Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom. The test allows the consumer the convenience of testing at home to quickly rule in or rule out the flu and provides the opportunity for prompt and proper treatment by a healthcare professional. Tens of millions of people worldwide contract influenza each year.
Influenza is a highly contagious, acute viral infection of the upper respiratory tract.
The virus can be dangerous and even deadly, particularly in high-risk patients and patients with underlying respiratory disease. In addition, flu-like symptoms can be indicative of other illnesses including some that are potentially dangerous. Quidel Corporation discovers, develops, manufactures and markets point-of care, rapid diagnostic tests for detection of medical conditions and illnesses. These products provide accurate, rapid and cost-effective diagnostic information for acute and chronic conditions that affect women's health throughout the phases of their lives including reproductive status, pregnancy management and osteoporosis. Quidel's products are sold to healthcare professionals for use in physicians' offices, clinical laboratories and pharmacies, and to consumers through organizations that provide private label, store brand products.