Metrix Respiratory Panel Test for COVID-19 and Flu

This trial tests a new home test kit designed to detect common respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV using a simple nose swab. The goal is to evaluate the test's effectiveness outside a lab, in real-life settings like homes. People with symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as a cough, fever, or sore throat, who have not received treatment for these conditions in the past 30 days, might be suitable candidates. Participants will collect their own samples, which researchers will compare to results from standard lab tests. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to developing accessible testing solutions for respiratory illnesses.

If you are currently taking or have recently taken medications for COVID-19, flu, or RSV, you may not be eligible to participate in the trial. The trial excludes those who have used certain antiviral treatments or vaccines within the past 30 days.

Research has shown that the Metrix Respiratory Panel Test is approved for home use without a prescription for individuals aged 14 and older. This approval indicates that the test has undergone some safety evaluation. The test uses a nasal swab to detect viruses such as COVID-19 and the flu. Currently, it is available under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the FDA, which deems it safe enough for use during health emergencies.

Researchers are excited about the Metrix Respiratory Panel Test because it offers a quick and user-friendly way to detect both COVID-19 and flu at home. Unlike standard diagnostic tests that often require a trip to a healthcare facility and professional sample collection, this test allows individuals to collect samples themselves in a comfortable, simulated home setting. This convenience could lead to faster diagnosis and treatment, helping to curb the spread of these respiratory illnesses. Moreover, maintaining confidentiality through coded samples ensures privacy, which is an added benefit for users.

Research shows that the Metrix Respiratory Panel Test, studied in this trial, is a high-quality test capable of identifying various viruses, including COVID-19, flu (Influenza A and B), and RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus). Studies have found that it can deliver results in about 20 minutes. This trial compares the test's accuracy with an FDA-approved test. Early findings suggest that the Metrix test effectively detects these viruses at home. Although not yet FDA-approved, it aims to provide reliable results for home testing.²⁴⁵⁶⁷