Lifestyle
Is it COVID-19? Flu? At-home rapid tests could help you and your doctor decide on a treatment plan
At-home rapid tests for COVID-19 and influenza are becoming available, allowing simultaneous diagnosis, which aids timely and effective treatment and improves patient outcomes.
Julie Sullivan, Emory University and Wilbur Lam, Georgia Institute of Technology
A scratchy, sore throat, a relentless fever, a pounding head and a nasty cough – these symptoms all scream upper respiratory illness. But which one?
Many of the viruses that cause upper respiratory infections such as influenza A or B and the virus that causes COVID-19 all employ similar tactics. They target the same areas in your body – primarily the upper and lower airways – and this shared battleground triggers a similar response from your immune system. Overlapping symptoms – fever, cough, fatigue, aches and pains – make it difficult to determine what may be the underlying cause.
Now, at-home rapid tests can simultaneously determine whether someone has COVID-19 or the flu. Thanks in part to the National Institutes of Health’s Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics, or RADx, program, the Food and Drug Administration has provided emergency use authorization for seven at-home rapid tests that can distinguish between COVID-19, influenza A and influenza B.
Our team in Atlanta – composed of biomedical engineers, clinicians and researchers at Emory University, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Georgia Institute of Technology – is part of the RADx Test Verification Core. We closely collaborate with other institutions and agencies to determine whether and how well COVID-19 and influenza diagnostics work, effectively testing the tests. Our center has worked with almost every COVID and flu diagnostic on the market, and our data helped inform the instructions you might see in many of the home test kits on the market.
While no test is perfect, to now be able to test for certain viruses at home when symptoms begin can help patients and their doctors come up with appropriate care plans sooner.
A new era of at-home tests
Traditionally, identifying the virus causing upper respiratory illness symptoms required going to a clinic or hospital for a trained medical professional to collect a nasopharyngeal sample. This involves inserting a long, fiber-tipped swab that looks like a skinny Q-tip into one of your nostrils and all the way to the back of your nose and throat to collect virus-containing secretions. The sample is then typically sent to a lab for analysis, which could take hours to days for results.
Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, the possibility of using over-the-counter tests to diagnose respiratory illnesses at home became a reality. These tests used a much gentler and less invasive nasal swab and could also be done by anyone, anytime and in their own home. However, these tests were designed to diagnose only COVID-19 and could not distinguish between other types of illnesses.
Since then, researchers have developed over-the-counter multiplex tests that can screen for more than one respiratory infection at once. In 2023, Pfizer’s Lucira test became the first at-home diagnostic test for both COVID-19 and influenza to gain emergency use authorization.
What are multiplex rapid tests?
There are two primary forms of at-home COVID-19 and COVID-19/flu combination tests: molecular tests such as PCR that detect genetic material from the virus, and antigen tests – commonly referred to as rapid tests – that detect proteins called antigens from the virus.
The majority of over-the-counter COVID-19 and COVID-19/flu tests on the market are antigen tests. They detect the presence of antigens in your nasal secretions that act as a biological signature for a specific virus. If viral antigens are present, that means you’re likely infected. https://www.youtube.com/embed/s45GMoZaHFE?wmode=transparent&start=0 Respiratory illnesses such as flu, COVID-19 and RSV can be hard to tell apart.
To detect these antigens, rapid tests have paper-like strips coated with specially engineered antibodies that function like a molecular Velcro, sticking only to a specific antigen. Scientists design and manufacture specialized strips to recognize specific viral antigens, like those belonging to influenza A, influenza B or the virus that causes COVID-19.
The antibodies for these viral targets are placed on the strip, and when someone’s nasal sample has viral proteins that are applied to the test strip, a line will appear for that virus in particular.
Advancing rapid antigen tests
Like all technologies, rapid antigen tests have limitations.
Compared with lab-based PCR tests that can detect the presence of small amounts of pathogen by amplifying them, antigen tests are typically less sensitive than PCR and could miss an infection in some cases.
All at-home COVID-19 and COVID-19/flu antigen tests are authorized for repeat use. This means if someone is experiencing symptoms – or has been exposed to someone with COVID-19 but is not experiencing symptoms – and has a negative result for their first test, they should retest 48 hours later.
Another limitation to rapid antigen tests is that currently they are designed to test only for COVID-19, influenza A and influenza B. Currently available over-the-counter tests aren’t able to detect illnesses from pathogens that look like these viruses and cause similar symptoms, such as adenovirus or strep.
Because multiplex texts can detect several different viruses, they can also produce findings that are more complex to interpret than tests for single viruses. This may increase the risk of a patient incorrectly interpreting their results, misreading one infection for another.
Researchers are actively developing even more sophisticated tests that are more sensitive and can simultaneously screen for a wider range of viruses or even bacterial infections. Scientists are also examining the potential of using saliva samples in tests for bacterial or viral infections.
Additionally, scientists are exploring integrating multiplex tests with smartphones for rapid at-home diagnosis and reporting to health care providers. This may increase the accessibility of these tests for people with vision impairment, low dexterity or other challenges with conducting and interpreting at-home tests.
Faster and more accurate diagnoses lead to more targeted and effective treatment plans, potentially reducing unnecessary antibiotic use and improving patient outcomes. The ability to rapidly identify and track outbreaks can also empower public health officials to better mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.
Julie Sullivan, Chief Operating Officer of RADx Tech, Emory University and Wilbur Lam, Chief Innovation Officer, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Technology Center; Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Parade and Steller have unveiled the 40 finalists in the nationwide search for America’s Favorite Small Town, a campaign designed to celebrate communities across the United States with populations under 250,000.
The initiative comes as the country moves toward the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, with organizers positioning the contest as a way to spotlight the character, traditions, and appeal of small-town America. After months of participation and hundreds of thousands of votes, the final group now moves on to the next stage of judging.
Among the finalists are Lodi, California; Lancaster, Pennsylvania; Fredericksburg, Texas; Kalamazoo, Michigan; and Dunedin, Florida. According to the announcement, the selected communities represent a wide cross-section of the country, from historic towns and coastal destinations to culturally rich main streets and regional travel hubs.
Parade and Steller said the finalists are now being showcased across Parade.com, Steller.co, and their combined social media channels, giving the communities exposure to an audience of more than 130 million potential travelers. Steller CEO Pete Bryant said videos submitted during the competition were viewed more than 2.4 million times, underscoring strong public interest and engagement.
Parade’s Lisa Delaney, General Manager and Chief Content Officer, said the finalists reflect the stories and traditions that bring people together. The campaign will continue with regional winners announced on June 1, 2026, followed by the naming of the national winner on June 12, 2026.
The top town will receive official branding rights tied to the title and a Parade x Steller activation during its July 4 celebration, which could include celebrity appearances, sponsor giveaways, and national media coverage.
Readers can view the full list of finalists and participating towns at the official contest site.
Source:
America’s Favorite Small Towns Official Finalists Page
Steller Official Website
Steller for Business
The Arena Group
Related External Links:
Parade Official Website
Steller Travel Platform
The Arena Group Corporate Site
Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter. https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/
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fitness
Walk More to Stress Less: Get Moving to Improve Well-Being
Sitting for over eight hours daily increases health risks like cardiovascular disease and obesity. Incorporating just 20 minutes of daily physical activity, such as walking, can enhance both mental and physical well-being. Engaging in enjoyable activities, walking with pets, or friends boosts motivation and overall happiness while reducing stress.
(Feature Impact) More than 10 years ago, a mere five words frightened desk jockeys everywhere: “sitting is the new smoking.” Still, many people across the U.S. are walking less than they used to. Long days spent sitting can take a toll over time, negatively impacting bodies and minds.
Research from the American Heart Association shows 1 in 4 adults in the United States sits for longer than 8 hours each day, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and premature death.
Feeling stretched by the demands of everyday life is common. However, simply adding just 20 minutes of daily physical activity may reduce the risk of disease and improve mental health, according to research published in “JAMA Internal Medicine.” Additionally, being physically active reaps many benefits down the road. It keeps your mind sharp as you age; studies show higher levels of fitness are linked to better attention, learning, working memory and problem solving. It also slashes risk of depression and boosts an all-around sense of joy.
Research continues to show physical activity, like walking, reduces stress, boosts mood and promotes overall well-being. This year, in honor of National Walking Day – created by the American Heart Association more than 10 years ago to encourage more movement throughout the day and help people live longer, healthier lives, one step at a time – consider these ideas to get your body moving to help lower stress, improve sleep, lift your mood and support both mental and physical health.
Step into the Great Outdoors
Slipping on a pair of comfortable walking shoes and heading outside is a simple way to get more movement in your life. Walking outside has the added benefits of helping reduce stress, improving mood and boosting cardiovascular health. Sunshine also provides a boost of vitamin D and immune support.
Make It Fun
Think of movement as something you give yourself, by moving more your way. When you choose activities you enjoy, it becomes easier to make them part of your day. If you can’t find 20 minutes for a walk outside, even short bursts of movement can help. Walking in place at a brisk pace, walking up and down the stairs in your home, finding a quick dance workout online or even seated exercises and stretch breaks throughout the day can help you feel more refreshed and ready to take on everyday tasks, like cooking and running errands.
Walk with a Furry Friend
Pets can be a great motivator to get moving. Plus, taking your furry friend for a stroll can support heart health, lower stress and boost overall happiness. In fact. a study published in the “Journal of Physical Activity and Health” shows dog owners are 34% more likely to reach their fitness goals and get the recommended amount of physical activity than those who don’t have a dog. Walking with your pet can also lead to more social connection, such as meeting neighbors or other pet owners.
Pound the Pavement with a Pal
Walking solo can be good for introspection, but bringing a friend, family member or coworker can make the time pass more quickly and add connection to your routine. Explore a greenway, waterfront or indoor mall for a fresh way to get some steps. If a loved one isn’t available to join you, make a phone call while you walk or take a meeting or conference call outdoors if your work allows it.
Every step counts. Visit Heart.org/movemore for more tips to get moving.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
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Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
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Lifestyle
Prepared and Aware: 4 Travel Safety Tips for Your 2026 Getaway
Travel remains a priority for many Americans, especially during warm seasons. To ensure enjoyable and safe trips, travelers should research destinations, use travel advisors, and consider insurance. Sharing itineraries with loved ones adds safety. Popular destinations like Mexico are open, but travelers should stay updated on advisories and precautions.
(Feature Impact) From beach escapes to international adventures, travel is still a top priority for millions of Americans, particularly during the warm-weather seasons. However, in light of evolving global events – and the changing travel advisories that often accompany them – preparation and awareness are key.
Travel planning should be exciting, and being a prepared traveler ensures you can focus on making memories rather than managing surprises. That means doing your homework before you go, remaining cautious and aware while you’re there and being ready to respond should the unexpected happen.
As you pack your bags, the experts at ALG Vacations recommend taking proactive steps like these to stay informed, protected and confident no matter where your adventures take you.
Research Your Destination
Familiarize yourself with local customs, transportation options and any travel advisories tied to your destination, which often vary by region, not country. If you’re heading abroad, consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) offered by the U.S. State Department. The free service provides real-time, destination-specific updates about health, weather, safety and security, and makes it easier to contact you in case of an emergency.
Consult with a Travel Advisor
One of the most effective safety measures is working with a professional travel advisor. Advisors monitor travel advisories in real time, understand geographic nuances and regional differences within destinations and can provide verified information directly from destination partners. If plans need to change, your advisor can recommend alternatives and help manage rebooking options.
Consider Travel Insurance
Preparation also means protecting your investment. Unexpected events – from flight cancellations and changes in advisory level to medical emergencies and weather delays – can happen at any time. Travel insurance adds an extra layer of protection, helping cover eligible expenses and providing peace of mind. If you elect coverage, review policy options carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered by your plan.
Share Your Plans with Someone at Home
Before departing, provide a trusted friend or family member with copies of your itinerary, lodging information and contact details. This ensures someone knows where you are and how to reach you in case of an emergency, flight disruption or unexpected change in plans.
To find more tips, or to connect with a travel advisor and benefit from personalized expert guidance on your spring excursion, visit TravelAdvisorsGetYouThere.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safe Travel to Mexico
Many of Mexico’s popular beach destinations – including Cancun, Riviera Maya, Costa Mujeres and Tulum – are operating as normal and welcoming visitors under a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory, which encourages travelers to remain aware of their surroundings and follow standard safety precautions, but does not discourage travel.
Stay informed of changes to advisory levels through official updates from the U.S. Embassy and the STEP program and consider these questions frequently asked to ALG Vacations travel advisors when planning your trip.
- Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now?
Travelers should follow the U.S. State Department’s official guidance. If visiting a destination in Mexico under the Level 2 advisory, which is a common advisory level globally that also applies to destinations such as France and Italy, exercise standard travel precautions. - Has the Puerto Vallarta shelter-in-place order been lifted?
Yes, the shelter-in-place guidance affecting Puerto Vallarta has been lifted. However, travelers
should regularly monitor official sources for updates or changes. - Are Cancun, Riviera Maya, Costa Mujeres or Tulum experiencing disruptions?
Airports in Cancun, Cozumel and Tulum are operating normally. Hotels, cruise ports and tourism services are also fully operational. - Are Los Cabos operations impacted?
Los Cabos tourism operations remain fully operational, including airport activity, ground transportation and hotel and resort operations. - What are some alternative destinations?
For those who may be exploring alternative plans, consider these popular spring destinations both domestically and abroad:
- Caribbean destinations including Jamaica and the Dominican Republic
- U.S. warm-weather destinations like Hawaii and Florida
- European island destinations such as Mallorca, Spain or Corfu, Greece
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
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Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
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