Molecular Testing for Respiratory Tract Infections: Preparing for an Uncertain Flu Season and the Use of Expanded RTI Panels

Preparing for an Uncertain Flu Season and the Use of Expanded RTI Panels

Respiratory tract infections are caused by a variety of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other microbes that cause similar symptoms. Moreover, the concurrent presence of viral and bacterial pathogens is a growing concern and effective detection methods are required to detect potential co-infections. The addition of SARS-CoV-2 to the pathogen ecosystem has further complicated this landscape. Accurate detection of these pathogens is critical for appropriate patient management and molecular testing is an extremely sensitive method to achieve this.

In this workshop, the speakers will discuss common questions regarding expectations for the upcoming flu season, testing for the plethora of respiratory pathogens capable of causing severe disease, and antimicrobial stewardship.

Learning Objectives

This webinar will help you:

• Assess the dynamics of the upcoming cold/flu season and learn about molecular diagnostic solutions for simultaneously detecting and differentiating COVID-19, seasonal flu, and other illnesses
• Clarify the clinical guidelines and value of expanded molecular panels for identifying influenza-like illnesses, co-infections, and anti-microbial resistance
• Prepare to utilize your existing capabilities to implement molecular testing for respiratory tract infections in your lab

For research use only. Not for diagnostic procedures.

This webinar is produced by Whitehat Communications, a provider of continuing education programs in clinical laboratory sciences that has been approved by the ASCLS P.A.C.E.™ Program. One P.A.C.E. credit hour will be provided for this complimentary, basic-level program.