Experts support rapid at-home testing to combat the winter virus season

An early flu season is on Australia’s doorstep, with more than 75,000 lab-confirmed infections representing a significant 50% increase in flu cases since this time last year.

As for COVID-19 cases in residential aged care, an 80% decrease since May 2024 suggests the sector is not facing large-scale outbreaks, but it cannot afford to be complacent.

The latest Australian Respiratory Surveillance Report states that since the end of 2021 COVID-19 has recorded a pattern where there are two peaks of mortality during the year – one occurring between November and January and the other occurring between May and August.

This is why leading organisations are urging aged care workers to proactively test themselves when flu-like symptoms start to appear. 

“Obviously, the sooner you know what illness you have, the better for everyone, as you know whether you need to isolate to protect those around you if you are contagious, especially if you have young children or the elderly in your proximity, as they are most prone to severe illness,” Daniel Seldon, from Aussie Pharma Direct, said.

“Half the battle for a lot of aged care providers is managing their staff, particularly with the symptoms being so similar with so many of these different viruses. Often people will start to feel these symptoms in the morning but they go to work, test negative for COVID-19, and soldier on unknowingly spreading RSV or influenza A or B. 

“Aged care workers should be able to test at home before they come to work. Then they can send a photo of the result to their boss and protect residents by not going in until they’re better,” Mr Seldon added. 

With the peak period for colds and flus here, Aussie Pharma Direct has released a five-in-one rapid antigen test (RAT) that tests for COVID-19, influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and adenovirus.

The test provides far more convenience than a PCR, meaning staff can check their results quickly before arriving at work and risking transmission to colleagues or residents. 

“If staff are testing for COVID-19 only and they’re working while unwell, the horse has already bolted. The ability to have a fast result for the majority of people is more important,” Mr Seldon added.

“These three acute respiratory infections are more likely to cause death in older age groups than younger age groups.

“As we know, regular vaccinations are the best way to maintain protection against severe disease, hospitalisation, and death from COVID-19. However, nationally fewer adults aged 18+ received a COVID-19 vaccine in the past 12 months (only 10.1%), as compared to the 12 months prior.”

Mr Seldon said prevention is always better than the cure, emphasising that vaccinations and early testing is the best way to maintain a strong, healthy workforce, and avoid putting residents at risk. 

His approach is backed up by Infectious Disease Physician, Professor Paul Griffin, who stressed that the current speed and scope of this year’s flu season should serve as a wake-up call.

“Early testing is not just a personal benefit, but a broader public health strategy. With flu, RSV, and COVID-19 circulating at the same time, early detection means targeted action. It reduces transmission, eases the burden on healthcare services, and ultimately saves lives,” Professor Griffin said.

In the post-pandemic world, early home testing can be a game changer when it comes to health management. 

Steven Quinlan, Director at Touch Biotechnology, said this is particularly important for individuals who could be at a higher risk of catching a virus, such as those with young families or work around vulnerable/at-risk individuals.

“This year’s numbers are sobering. With viruses spreading earlier and more aggressively, early home testing has become more important than ever,” Mr Quinlan said.

“When families can identify illness quickly, they’re better equipped to act fast, reduce disruption, and help protect those most at risk. It’s about staying informed and in control.

“Owning your health starts at home. It starts with understanding what’s happening in your body and in your family. One test can keep the household on track, kids in school, and grandparents safe. And in a season like this, that kind of control makes all the difference.”