Flu season has arrived, and with us still in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic comes the challenge of identifying which is which. At first glance, it’s an apples-to-oranges comparison. One is a respiratory illness, the other a viral disease that causes flu-like symptoms and can be spread through direct contact with infected people or animals. But both are serious illnesses that can lead to hospitalization and even death.
Both SARS Covid-19 and influenza are respiratory viruses, which means they attack your respiratory system.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), these two viruses also share similar symptoms, such as:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle pain or body aches
• Headache

These similarities can sometimes make it difficult to identify which virus you have, especially if your symptoms are mild. Whether it be the seasonal flu or Covid-19, it is essential to have access to a reliable, confidential, and affordable testing option to determine what virus you have contracted.

For business owners, it is essential that both respiratory illnesses can pose a threat to your staff, which can lead to decreased productivity and a loss of revenue. With the growing prevalence of these viruses in the community, it is important to get tested and treated as soon as possible to avoid further complications. By taking the initiative to invest in your workforce’s health, you can ensure that your business remains profitable and productive.

Safecare Biotech’s SARS Covid-19 and Influenza A+B Combo Test: What is it and how to use it?

Thankfully, Safecare Biotech has released a test that can tell the difference between the two viruses–and it will no sooner be available to the Australian market. Safecare Biotech’s SARS Covid-19 and Influenza A+B is the first combo test approved by the European Health Commission. The test detects the presence of both influenza A and influenza B viruses, as well as SARS Covid-19 by identifying specific proteins on the surface of each virus. Safecare Biotech’s combo test also uses a rapid in-vitro diagnostic device that requires small amounts of respiratory fluid, whether it be sputum or throat swab.

Each pack of Safecare Biotech’s SARS Covid-19 and Influenza A+B Combo Test contains:

• 5 COVID Antigen tests are used to detect the presence of the virus in a sample.
• 5 extraction tubes with a buffer, which are used to extract the virus from your nasal swab.
• 5 sterilized nasal swabs, which you can use to take a sample.
• 5 waste bags, which you can use to dispose of your items after testing them.
• 1 package insert that contains instructions for using the kit and information about where to return it for disposal once you’re done using it.

Safecare Biotech’s SARS Covid-19 and Influenza A+B combo test is also extremely easy to use and only takes about 15 minutes to finish.
Before conducting the self-test, read the instructions fully. The next step is to prepare by washing your hands thoroughly. Doing so will help prevent the spread of germs from your hands to your eyes, nose, and mouth. Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Make sure that you rinse off all traces of soap before proceeding with the test.

1. After washing and disinfecting your hands, open the Safecare Biotech SARS Covid-19 and Influenza A+B combo test box and put all the materials on a flat and clean surface.
2. Carefully peel off the foil of the buffer solution tube and place the tube into the hole of the box.
3. The next step is to remove the swab from the package. Make sure that you only touch the stick end of the swab and not the soft tip.
4. When taking the sample, slightly tilt your head backward and slowly insert the soft tip of the swab into your left nostril about 2.5 centimeters deep. Firmly but carefully brush the inside of the nose and roll the swab back and forth three to four times. Do not use excessive force, as this may cause trauma to the nasal cavity.
5. Repeat this for your right nostril.
6. Once finished, insert the swab into the tube until the soft tip is immersed in the liquid. Rotate the swab tip at the bottom and the side of the tube to transfer any cells present on your swab to your sample.
7. After doing this, dispose of the swab or return it to its package. Cover the tube with a cap and take out the test cassette.
8. Add three drops of the specimen into each sample. You will notice that Safecare Biotech’s Combo Test looks different from other rapid antigen tests as it also includes a qualitative test for the detection of H. influenzae.
9. Wait for ten to fifteen minutes for the results of the test.

Safecare Biotech’s SARS Covid-19 and Influenza A+B Combo Test can be used in any setting, including in the comfort of one’s own home.
Businesses need to test their employees for Covid-19 to ensure that their staff is healthy at all times. This is important as it reduces the risk of them spreading an infection to their families or other people they come into contact with outside of work. It also helps you manage your business more effectively by ensuring that any infected employees are removed from work until they are well again.

Safecare Biotech’s SARS Covid-19 and Influenza A+B Combo Test is ideal in the workplace as it is fast, reliable, and convenient—allowing you to focus on other aspects of running your business.

Safecare Biotech also recognizes how the pandemic is still causing supply chain disruptions, so they encourage companies who want to avail of the Combo Test to order directly from them. Doing so can mitigate possible delays in receiving your shipment.

Conclusion

It is necessary to recognize the dangers of Covid-19. The SARS Covid-19 and Influenza A+B Combo Test is an effective way to screen employees and help ensure that they are protected against these dangerous viruses. By being proactive in protecting your workforce, you can help protect your business as well.