Abbott launches Panbio COVID-19 and flu self-test across Canada

Abbott has announced the availability of its Panbio COVID-19/Flu A&B Self-Test in Canada, offering at-home testing for COVID-19, influenza A and influenza B from a single nasal swab.

The test provides results in approximately 15 minutes and is authorized by Health Canada for use in people aged two years and older.

Abbott said the product is available in single-test and four-test kit formats and is now stocked in more than 1,800 pharmacies across Canada.

The launch comes as respiratory viruses begin circulating more widely during the seasonal illness period.

COVID-19 and influenza can cause similar symptoms, making it difficult for people to identify the likely cause of illness based on symptoms alone.

Abbott said rapid testing may help individuals make more informed decisions about seeking medical care, limiting spread within households and protecting people at greater risk of complications.

The Panbio self-test is designed to detect SARS-CoV-2 as well as influenza A and B using one nasal sample.

Abbott said the test delivers results with more than 90% accuracy.

A Leger survey commissioned by the company also examined attitudes toward respiratory illness testing among Canadians.

Around 72% of respondents said knowing whether they had influenza or COVID-19 would help them decide what steps to take next.

The survey found that 74% would use an at-home COVID-19 and flu test if it helped guide their decisions.

Among parents with children at home, 50% said they were concerned about mismanaging flu-like symptoms, compared with 36% of the general population.

Around 74% of respondents also said they were worried about spreading illness to loved ones.

Abbott highlighted the potential importance of rapid testing because antiviral treatment windows can be relatively short.

COVID-19 antivirals are generally most effective when started within five days of symptom onset, while influenza antivirals are typically most effective when started within 48 hours.

Shelita Dattani, PharmD, a pharmacist and health consultant, said knowing whether symptoms are caused by COVID-19 or influenza can help families make more informed decisions about work, school, social activities and when to contact a healthcare professional.

Cristina Baker, MD, MPH, Head of Medical and Scientific Affairs for Abbott’s rapid diagnostics business, said the wider availability of multi-virus testing is intended to give families faster information about the likely cause of respiratory symptoms.

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