Respiratory Testing Surge in 2024-2025 The 2024-2025 respiratory season is expected to drive a 10-15% increase in testing volume for influenza, RSV, and COVID-19. Flu testing alone is anticipated to hit 15-20 million tests, a surge from last year’s figures, with RSV tests expected to top 5 million. This rise is driven by returning virus activity to pre-pandemic levels, coupled with increased awareness due to new RSV vaccines targeting infants and senior citizens.

While COVID-19 testing remains lower than its pandemic peak, labs should still prepare for around 10 million tests, particularly in areas where cases might surge during the winter.

Key Test Volumes by Disease

1. Influenza: Flu testing could reach up to 20 million tests, with heightened awareness from vaccine campaigns and potential earlier virus activity.
2. RSV: With over 5 million tests expected, particularly for infants and older adults, RSV testing will be a key driver of volume this season. Awareness from new vaccines for seniors and infants could further spike demand.
3. COVID-19: Although COVID-19 testing volumes have decreased, approximately 10 million tests are projected, with surges expected during peak respiratory season.
4. H5N1: While the risk remains low, there is potential for growth in H5N1 testing, particularly in regions with higher poultry outbreaks. Adding H5N1 to your respiratory panels can differentiate your lab and attract demand from specialized sectors.

How Labs Can Capture the Volume

• Target High-Risk Groups: Pediatric practices, senior care facilities, and urgent care centers are key markets. By partnering with these facilities, labs can position themselves as go-to providers for comprehensive respiratory testing.
• Expand Respiratory Panels: Offering combined panels for flu, RSV, and COVID-19 can simplify diagnostics for healthcare providers. Including H5N1 testing further differentiates your offerings.
• Leverage Rapid and Mobile Testing: Offering rapid, same-day results for flu, RSV, and COVID-19 will increase demand from urgent care and retail clinics. Providing at-home testing kits for telehealth patients can also expand your reach.

Differentiating Your Lab Independent labs can stand out by offering comprehensive respiratory test panels, quick turnaround times, and niche offerings like H5N1. With growing demand in pediatric and senior populations, being proactive and flexible will help labs maximize their potential this season.

Conclusion The 2024-2025 respiratory season presents a significant opportunity for labs, with an expected 10-15% rise in testing demand. By expanding test offerings, focusing on high-risk populations, and partnering with key healthcare providers, independent labs can capture a significant share of the respiratory testing market.

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