French group's test distinguishes flu and Covid

French medical diagnostics company bioMerieux said Wednesday it had received certification to sell a test capable of distinguishing regular flu from COVID-19 and two other respiratory illnesses with similar symptoms.

The company believes the test will help sufferers and doctors diagnose their illness more quickly, which could potentially save lives.

After receiving the European "CE" regulatory marking, the test will be available in Europe and other countries that recognise this certification.

François Lacoste, head of research and development at bioMerieux, said he believed the tests "have a key role to play with the onset of winter and the flu season."

Using a nasal swab, the kits can detect flu types A and B and COVID-19, as well as human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (hMPV).

© 2020 AFP