Comparison of two rapid influenza A/B test kits with reference methods showing high specificity and sensitivity for influenza A infection.

The rapid detection of influenza viruses is important for forming preventative strategies, directing initiation of anti-viral therapy, detecting potential avian influenza viruses, and excluding influenza-like pathogens, such as SARS. The ImmunoCard STAT! Flu A and B Plus test (Meridian Bioscience, Cincinnati, OH) is a new point of care (POC) test utilizing influenza-specific monoclonal antibodies for rapid diagnosis. The performance of this assay was compared to the established POC Binax NowFlu A and NowFlu B test, and the reference diagnostic standards of viral culture, indirect immunofluorescence (IFA), and RT-PCR where appropriate. Testing of nasopharyngeal aspirates (NPA) from children, throat swabs, and nasal swabs from adults indicated ImmunoCard STAT! specificity of 98% and 100% for influenza A and B, respectively in 224 specimens. The Binax test showed specificity of 99% and 100%, respectively for influenza A and B. Sensitivity results were identical for both rapid detection kits (80% and 47% for Flu A and B, respectively). Overall results were very similar for both testing devices with the advantage of ImmunoCard STAT! Flu A and B Plus test detecting influenza A and B with sharp and easy to read results. Copyright 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.