Summary: SEKISUI Diagnostics has launched the Metrix COVID/Flu Test, a rapid molecular diagnostic for SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, expanding its partnership with Aptitude Medical Systems to improve point-of-care and at-home testing.

Takeaways:

  • The Metrix COVID/Flu Test delivers results in 20 minutes with minimal hands-on time.It provides an affordable, easy-to-use molecular test for various healthcare settings, including underserved areas.This launch strengthens SEKISUI’s diagnostic portfolio and enhances accessibility to high-quality testing.

    • SEKISUI Diagnostics, a global medical diagnostics manufacturer, announces the launch of the Metrix COVID/Flu Test, the second assay on the Metrix Molecular Platform for use at the point-of-care and in the home. In January 2024, SEKISUI Diagnostics and Aptitude Medical Systems (Aptitude), formalized an exclusive distribution agreement to sell the Aptitude Metrix COVID-19 Test in the United States. Following Aptitude’s recent FDA authorization, SEKISUI Diagnostics will now also offer the COVID/Flu combo test.

    “The unique features of this test are what make this addition to our portfolio so exciting. It is not only one of the most affordable molecular multiplex tests on the market, but the simple procedure, which only requires a few steps and minimal hands-on time, allows it to be used in a variety of healthcare settings. This includes urgent care, mobile health, physician offices, and remote or underserved areas. By bringing the lab to the end user, we are enabling more accessible and timely diagnostics, ensuring that patients receive the care they need, wherever they are. This innovation is a game-changer for healthcare delivery, making high-quality diagnostics available to all,” says Lee Lipski, Sr. VP, Strategy & Business Management, SEKISUI Diagnostics.

    Metrixs COVID/Flu Test Has Fast Results

    The Metrix COVID/Flu Test is a molecular test intended for the qualitative detection and differentiation of RNA from SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A, and Influenza B from anterior nares swab samples. Results are available in 20 minutes, and the test requires just seconds of hands-on time.

    “The Metrix COVID/Flu test is the next step in Aptitude’s journey to transform infectious disease diagnostics. Metrix detects and differentiates three viruses, in 20 minutes, with one test, in a form factor that disrupts cost and usability barriers.”, says Scott Ferguson, PhD, CEO and co-founder of Aptitude. “We’re continuing to deliver on our promise to consumers and we are delighted to build on our successful partnership with SEKISUI Diagnostics, which expands access to Metrix, giving any healthcare provider the power of molecular without any of the barriers.”

    SEKISUI Diagnostics is a provider of many rapid diagnostic solutions to the professional and home testing markets through a portfolio of tests under the OSOM and Acucy brands. They also supply tests through the HHS/ASPR program (COVIDTests.gov), which delivers tests for free to households across the country.

    Featured Image: Metrix COVID/Flu Test. Photo: SEKISUI Diagnostics