Swab; an Infection Test for Identifying Viruses, Bacteria, or Other Microorganisms Causing Illness to a Person

 

Swab

Swab is an infection test used to identify bacteria, viruses or other microorganisms that may be the cause of a person’s illness. Several different tests are available, depending on the type of infection being tested for. These include nasopharyngeal, or throat swabs and nasal swabs.

Swabs are sterile, disposable devices that contain an antigen or virus that can be identified by a laboratory. These swabs are usually wrapped in plastic and come with instructions for use. They can also be purchased separately. This test is most often performed when a doctor suspects a patient has a bacterial infection in the nose, however, can be used for other things too.

The global swab market size was valued at US$ 578.6 million in 2017, and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 6.6% over the forecast period (2018 – 2026).

The swab is also used to collect and examine a sample of tissue for viruses or bacteria that may be present in the tissue. These samples are called cultures and can help diagnose strep throat, pneumonia, and other bacterial infections.

According to Coherent Market Insights the Alcohol Swab Market Size, Share, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 2022-2028

A nasopharyngeal swab culture can also be done to check for Group A Streptococcus bacteria that may cause pharyngitis, or a sore throat. This test is less invasive than a throat swab culture, and is generally more comfortable. It can also be helpful for patients who are having difficulty swallowing, such as those with a feeding tube or those who are very sick. This test can be done by a health care provider, in a doctor’s office or at home.

This type of swab is made from a small, soft needle and a flexible shaft with a minitip (wire or plastic) on the end. It is placed through the nostril parallel to the ear until resistance is encountered or the distance is equivalent to that from the ear to the nose of the patient, indicating contact with the nasopharynx. Performing a nasopharyngeal or throat swab culture is more accurate than a nose swab and will provide more details about the presence of a particular microorganism. This test is most often used to diagnose strep throat or other bacterial infections of the throat, however, can be useful for others as well. In December 2022, Someday Health, a testing and wellness provider in the U.S. launched its single swab test for COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RVS), and influenza A/B strains.