Since the pandemic, we have become familiar with rapid antigen tests which were popularised as an at home test to diagnose COVID-19. Since then, they have expanded their usage to diagnose other respiratory diseases, but now there’s a new Sonictec 5-in-1 rapid antigen test (RAT) that is the first of its kind approved for use in Australia that tests for COVID-19, influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and adenovirus.

Adenovirus is a highly contagious virus behind many undiagnosed fevers, eye infections, respiratory illness, and gastro symptoms. It often mimics other respiratory viruses and is the leading cause of febrile illness in children with many carriers showing no symptoms.

According to the latest Australian Respiratory Surveillance Report for the reporting period of April 21 to May 4, 2025, RATs are the preferred diagnostic tool with 45.8% of survey participants using a RAT, as compared to 9.9% using a PCR to test for respiratory conditions.

“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,” said Daniel Seldon from Aussie Pharma Direct.

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.

“In light of this, we are now in the peak period, so it’s wise to stock up on RATs and get vaccinated against COVID-19, the flu, and RSV,” said Seldon. “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 (17% in May 1, 2023, to April 28, 2024).

“Having said that, in the latest reporting period of April 21 to May 4, 2025, more children aged 16 years and younger were admitted to sentinel hospitals with RSV than with influenza or COVID-19, while more adults were admitted with COVID-19 compared to influenza or RSV,” said Seldon.

In fact, in the year to date, RSV notification rates remain consistently higher in children aged 0-4 years than in other age groups, and is highest in NSW, and lowest in Tasmania and Western Australia.

“Prevention is always better than cure, so I urge everyone to get vaccinated and to use a 5-in-1 RAT at the first sign of symptoms for peace of mind protection for themselves and their loved ones,” concludes Seldon.