ADVISORY/Flu Season -- News You Can Use; Patients with Flu-Like Symptoms Urged to Request Rapid In-Office Flu Test from Doctor to Aid in Diagnosing Influenza.

Business Editors/Health/Medical Writers

ADVISORY...

--(BUSINESS WIRE)

What:     The influenza activity in the U.S. continues to increase
          with 43 states reporting at least sporadic influenza
          activity.  According to the CDC, not since 1976 has there
          been an influenza season showing such a level of intensity
          so early in the season.

Who:      Physician experts and Quidel Corporation spokespeople are
          available to speak about this flu season and what people
          should know about the advancements in testing, diagnosing
          and treating the flu.

Why:      Although rapid flu testing is gaining in popularity, many
          patients are unaware that these tests are available and can
          be done quickly in their doctor's office, while they wait.
          This helpful tool enables doctors to quickly diagnose flu
          when symptoms such as cough, fever, sore throat and muscle
          aches begin.

How:      One test -- the QuickVue(R) Influenza test -- is quick and
          painless, requiring only a nasal swab, and can be performed
          in 10 minutes or less. This allows doctors to diagnose the
          flu and prescribe appropriate treatment options including
          antiviral therapy -- which aids in faster recovery and can
          prevent the spread of the virus to others (antibiotics are
          ineffective against viral infections).

Contacts: If you are interested in pursuing a story on this important
          topic, and tapping into expertise from leaders in the field,
          please feel free to contact Leslie Bryant at 310-577-7870
          ext. 138 or via email, [e-mail] to
          arrange an interview.