RSV is often under-detected in adults because routine diagnostics typically rely on a single nasal/ nasopharyngeal swab (NPS), according to results presented at the 2024 American Thoracic Society International Conference. The study was conducted across seven sites and included adults aged 40 and over with underlying cardiopulmonary comorbidities such as chronic heart disease and various chronic lung conditions. The researchers collected and analyzed multiple types of diagnostic specimens, including NPS, saliva, sputum, and serology, using RT-PCR and Luminex-based immunoassays. Results showed that using a combination of diagnostic samples significantly improved RSV detection. Sensitivity rates were 47% for NPS alone, increasing to 65% with saliva, 71% with sputum, and 75% with serology. Overall, the addition of multiple samples boosted RSV detection by 115%. Patients with acute cardiopulmonary conditions showed even greater increases in detection rates, highlighting the need for enhanced diagnostic strategies in these high-risk groups