On October 7, the FDA authorized another over-the-counter at-home COVID-19 and flu combo test kit. One in five (20%) St. Louis adults surveyed reported hearing about it this week, an increase from 9% who had heard about it one week prior.
How does the combo test kit work?
The Healgen Rapid Check COVID-19/Flu A&B Test is made for people experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness, including fever, shortness of breath, sore throat, and congestion. Using a nasal swab, the test kit provides results in 15 minutes. It accurately identifies at least 99% of negative cases (those with no flu or COVID) and delivers correct results for 92% of users who have COVID-19, 93% who have influenza A, and 91% who have influenza B. It is approved for ages 2 and up. This combo test was the first approved through the regular FDA review process, allowing it to be sold without an emergency declaration. Other over-the-counter combo tests are available under emergency use authorization.
Benefits of a combo test
Even though many symptoms of flu and COVID are similar, treatment of the two illnesses is different. Because the combo test can tell which you have (or both), it can help you manage those symptoms and protect those around you, especially as the holidays approach.
How to get a combo test kit
At-home combo tests are available over the counter at many pharmacies and other stores in St. Louis. They can also be purchased online. Individual test kits for COVID-19 only or flu only also are available in stores; at-home COVID-19 tests can still be ordered for free from covidtests.gov.
Help spread the word in St. Louis
Let St. Louis residents know about the new combo test kits by sharing the resources below.
Survey information
This week’s report is based on a survey of 244 adult residents in St. Louis, MO (n = 155) and Omaha, NE (n = 87), conducted from November 9-11, 2024. Explore these data and more at iHeardSTL.
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Suggested Caption:
Your favorite new “combo” may not be a meal! Now available in pharmacies and online: At-home combo COVID and flu tests. Have you heard about them?
#iHeardSTL #COVID #Flu #SelfTest
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Test yourself for flu and COVID at the same time to protect your loved ones and get the right treatment if you’re sick. Combo tests are approved for ages two and up. Check your local pharmacies or order it online.
#iHeardSTL #COVID #Flu #SelfTest
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