Global Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests Market Trends

• Technological integration with Artificial Intelligence (AI): The integration of AI and machine learning capabilities in rapid diagnostic testing workflows is an emerging trend. AI allows for automated reading and interpretation of assay results, reducing human errors. Players are incorporating AI technology to develop smarter rapid influenza tests that provide more accurate and objective diagnosis.
• Increasing use of smartphone-based fluorescence assays: Smartphone-based fluorescence microscopy is gaining increasing interest for the development of rapid POC diagnostic tests. Fluorescence assays provide greater sensitivity than conventional lateral flow immunoassays. The use of miniaturized fluorescence readers coupled with smartphones allows for portable, accurate testing at POC settings.
• Growing industry focus on multiplex molecular testing: Major market players are increasingly focusing on introducing rapid multiplex molecular assays for combined influenza and respiratory pathogen testing. For instance, in September 2022, Cepheid, molecular diagnostics company launched Xpert Xpress Flu/RSV Plus, a rapid molecular test for detection of flu A, flu B, and RSV from a single nasal swab. The availability of such multiplex tests that provide faster, accurate results in 30-60 minutes is paving the way for multiplex testing to emerge as the new industry standard.
• Shift towards decentralized POC testing models: There is a rising trend towards decentralized diagnostic testing models for influenza and infectious diseases. Key industry players are making investments in advancing POC testing capabilities. Rapid antigen tests are being adapted into portable, easy-to-use formats suitable for POC environments. Decentralized community testing sites, retail clinics, and mobile health clinics provide immense potential for POC deployment of rapid flu tests. This allows for timely influenza diagnosis and reduced burden on hospitals & labs.

Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests Market Regional Insights:

• North America is expected to be the largest market for rapid influenza diagnostic tests during the forecast period, which accounted for over 40.5% of the market share in 2022. The growth of the market in North America is attributed to the high burden of seasonal influenza, favorable reimbursement policies, and the presence of major market players in the region.
• Europe is expected to be the second-largest market for rapid influenza diagnostic tests, which accounted for over 27.7% of the market share in 2022. The growth of the market in Europe is attributed to the rising awareness about timely disease diagnosis and increasing healthcare expenditure in the region.
• Asia Pacific market is expected to be the fastest-growing market for rapid influenza diagnostic tests, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 9.5% during the forecast period. The growth of the market in Asia Pacific is attributed to the large population base, growing prevalence of influenza, and improving healthcare infrastructure in the region.

Figure 1. Global Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests Market, By Region