# A Rapid Test to Differentiate Viral From Bacterial Infections: Searching for the Holy Grail

## TL;DR

This paper reviews a rapid test combining two biomarkers to help distinguish viral from bacterial infections and reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.

## Contribution

The paper evaluates a combined point-of-care assay using Myxovirus resistance protein A and C-reactive protein for infection differentiation.

## Key findings

- The combined assay shows potential for rapid differentiation of viral and bacterial infections.
- Remaining questions include the test's accuracy and applicability in diverse clinical settings.

## Abstract

Differentiating viral from bacterial causes of acute respiratory illness can avoid the numerous consequences of inappropriate antibiotic use. We review the clinical literature evaluating a combined rapid Myxovirus resistance protein A and C-reactive protein point-of-care assay, discuss potential applications, and highlight remaining questions.