ONE ASSAY TO TEST THEM ALL: COMPARING MULTIPLEX ASSAYS FOR EXPANSION OF RESPIRATORY VIRUS SURVEILLANCE.

Viral respiratory infections represent a major burden globally, weighed down by the COVID-19 pandemic, and threatened by spillover of novel zoonotic influenza viruses. Since respiratory infections share clinical presentations, identification of the causing agent for patient care and public health measures requires laboratory testing for several pathogens, including potential zoonotic spillovers. Simultaneous detection of SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and RSV in a single RT-PCR accelerates time from sampling to diagnosis, preserve consumables, and streamline human resources to respond to other endemic or emerging pathogens. Multiplex assays have the potential to sustain and even expand surveillance systems, can utilize capacity/capability developed during the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide, thereby strengthening epidemic/pandemic preparedness, prevention, and response.