For around ten euros, it is possible to find out if you have the flu or Covid with this test available in pharmacies.
A combined test is available in pharmacies without a prescription. It makes it possible to detect Covid-19, influenza and bronchiolitis (respiratory syncytial virus or RSV) using a single sample from the nose. It exists in two versions: the “self-test” version to be carried out yourself (by a child himself from 6 years old under the supervision of an adult or by an adult for young children from one month old). The “TROD” version (Rapid Diagnostic Orientation Test) which must be carried out in a pharmacy, hospital, office or laboratory by a pharmacist, doctor, nurse or midwife. The decree of May 21, 2024 confirmed this possibility for pharmacists, doctors, nurses and midwives.
These two versions work on the same principle as antigen tests. Accessible to all ages, it is particularly suitable for children because it does not require going deep into the nasal cavity. It is used by more than 100 pediatric and adult emergency departments, including many university hospitals.
The test is called “All in triplex” and was marketed by the AAZ group. Its principle is simple: simply insert a small swab into each nostril and wait 15 minutes (do not read beyond 20 minutes) to see the results in the form of three colored bands: each color corresponds to one of the viruses (blue for Covid, green for the flu and orange for RSV). The test is negative if there is a single colored band (control band C). The test is positive if there are two colored bands (the control band C + the virus-specific band T). This test identifies influenza viral types (influenza A and B), but does not discriminate between type A virus subtypes.
Although reliable (reliability rate of 98% according to studies carried out by the manufacturer), this test is of limited interest for HAS for the simple reason that this test does not change the way of treating these diseases (these three diseases being treated in the same way, namely with medications such as paracetamol and plenty of rest). Knowing the virus involved does not always seem necessary. However, this test can be useful to reassure families, especially if you are around a vulnerable person.
It could also help limit the prescription of antibiotics and reduce unnecessary emergency room visits for seasonal respiratory infections considered benign. It therefore has an interest in communities or health establishments (EHPAD, FAM, MAS) but also for people at risk such as the elderly, fragile people or pregnant women. The recommended retail price by AAZ was initially 10 euros, but the retail price in pharmacies is free. Prices found online are generally around €8.99 to €10.50 per unit test. The test is currently not reimbursed by Health Insurance, whether for the self-test version or for the TROD carried out by a professional. It should be noted that, since March 1, 2025, antigen tests and self-tests for detection of Covid-19 are no longer covered by Health Insurance.
