The Best CLIA-Waived Flu and COVID-19 Combo Tests for Clinics & Pharmacies in 2024

During respiratory illness season, clinics, pharmacies, and occupational health providers need fast, reliable, and simple testing solutions for both Influenza A/B and COVID-19. Combo tests that detect multiple viruses from a single nasal swab help providers quickly differentiate between flu and COVID-19, which often present with overlapping symptoms.

Thanks to CLIA-waived approvals, many of these combo tests can now be performed directly at the point of care without the need for complex laboratory equipment or extensive training.

What is a CLIA-Waived Flu and COVID Combo Test?

A CLIA-waived test is a diagnostic test that has been approved by the FDA for use in patient-care settings operating under a CLIA Certificate of Waiver. This allows clinics, pharmacies, urgent care centers, and physician offices to conduct rapid testing without needing laboratory certification.

Combo tests specifically screen for:

  • Influenza A (Flu A)
  • Influenza B (Flu B)
  • SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)

Many facilities rely on these tests to quickly isolate infectious patients, make treatment decisions, and reduce unnecessary prescriptions or procedures.

Top CLIA-Waived Flu and COVID-19 Combo Tests

Here’s a comparison of several widely available combo tests:

1️⃣ BD Veritor SARS-CoV-2 & Flu A+B Kit

2️⃣ Quidel Sofia 2 Flu + SARS Antigen FIA

  • Analyzer Required: Yes (Sofia 2 Analyzer)
  • Results: 15 minutes
  • CLIA Waived: ✅
  • Available in 25-test kits

3️⃣ Cordx Tyfast Flu A/B + COVID-19 Multiplex Rapid Test (Analyzer-Free)

👉 The Cordx Tyfast test offers analyzer-free testing, which is ideal for smaller clinics, pharmacies, and occupational health providers that want fast respiratory screening without additional equipment investment.

Why Analyzer-Free Testing Saves Time & Money

For many facilities, analyzer-free tests offer:

  • Lower startup costs: no capital equipment to purchase
  • Simpler training: minimal operator learning curve
  • Faster patient flow: test can be performed directly by staff
  • Reduced maintenance: no devices to calibrate or clean
  • Cost savings: ideal for low to mid-volume testing facilities

Analyzer-free options like the Cordx Tyfast provide an excellent solution for facilities that need quick results but don’t want the added expense of analyzer systems.

Conclusion

As respiratory season approaches, it’s critical to have the right testing solutions in place. CLIA-waived Flu and COVID-19 combo tests allow providers to efficiently care for patients while ensuring rapid, accurate diagnoses.

👉 MDSupplies carries a full selection of CLIA-waived combo tests, including analyzer-free options like Cordx Tyfast.
Browse all CLIA-Waived Tests Here

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