Local company creating PCR test that screens for COVID-19, the flu and RSV

Flu
Photo credit Getty Images

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- As winter approaches, there is concern that there could be what some are calling a “tripledemic.” A local company is preparing.

The company, Shield T3, affiliated with the University of Illinois System's Discovery Partners Institute, has developed a saliva-based PCR test kit that will screen for COVID-19, the flu and RSV — in response to what CEO David Clark called a potential "tripledemic" this winter.

“Given the current state of the pandemic, when you’re sick these days, you have no idea what you have,” Bill Jackson, principal officer of Shield T3 told CBS 3 in Champaign.

“It could just be a cold, but it could be something, like COVID, that requires you to isolate. This test gives our customers a quicker answer.”

The three viruses have similar symptoms — fever, cough and congestion, but different treatment methods.

A saliva sample is taken and the kit is mailed to the company. Results come in 24 hours.

Right now, the kits are being made available to Universities, K-12 schools and private employers, according to CBS 3.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Getty Images