Respiratory Panel

We know that more people are prone to colds and flu in the winter months because more time is spent indoors allowing for easier transmission of respiratory infections. In addition, we know that some of the symptoms of Influenza and COVID-19 are similar, making it difficult to discern the difference between those two infections based on symptoms alone. These symptoms include fever, chills, cough, difficult breathing, body aches, sore throat, etc.

Brookside Clinical Laboratory, Inc. developed a Respiratory Assay via PCR that tests for Influenza A, Influenza B, RSV, Strep, and COVID using a single swab. The ability to test for multiple respiratory pathogens from a single swab can provide more accurate and differentiated results from patients in the acute phase of infection.

Brookside is able to provide results for our Respiratory Panel in 24 hours from the time it is received at the lab. This is significant in the case of a positive flu result. Having results in 24 hours will allow Tamiflu to be administered well within the recommended 48 hours to prevent a community outbreak. In addition, when a patient tests positive for COVID, proper infection control measures can be put in place immediately to prevent a community outbreak.

Brookside is doing what we think is best practices, based on CDC recommendations, for our clients to help prepare for the flu season.