This study, called Care4Kids, aims to improve the management of respiratory infections in children visiting emergency departments. The research will evaluate the impact of using the BIOFIRE® SPOTFIRE® R/ST Panel, a rapid molecular point-of-care test, compared to standard care.
Children aged 2 months to 18 years with symptoms of respiratory tract infection or flu-like illness will be enrolled. After consent, participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:
* Intervention group: The SPOTFIRE test will be performed immediately to guide treatment decisions.
* Control group: Patients will receive standard care without the rapid test. The study will take place in three pediatric emergency departments in France, Greece, and Sweden. Up to 720 children will participate. A follow-up phone call will be made 14 days after the visit to check recovery and satisfaction.
The goal is to see whether rapid testing improves patient outcomes, reduces unnecessary treatments, and increases caregiver satisfaction.