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Influenza is an infectious disease of the respiratory system caused by influenza viruses, including influenza A and B. It is characterized by a sudden onset, high fever, muscle aches, cough and general weakness. The flu virus is transmitted by droplets, so it is easy to get infected, especially in the autumn and winter season. Although for many people the flu is “only” a few days spent in bed, for others it can have serious consequences and even lead to death. That is why it is so important to quickly diagnose the disease and implement appropriate treatment, especially in the context of RSV diagnostics. For this purpose, it is worth doing a home flu test to quickly check for the presence of the virus. flu test.

Types of flu tests

There are two main types of diagnostic tests to detect the flu virus: follow-up tests and rapid tests.

• Rapid diagnostic tests: These are performed with a nasal or throat swab, which is a standard procedure in diagnosis. We get the result after just a few minutes. Rapid tests are available in pharmacies without a prescription.
• Lab tests: Require a blood sample or nasopharyngeal swab. They are more sensitive and accurate than rapid tests, but you have to wait a few days for the result. Laboratory tests are ordered by a doctor, and their results can be crucial in diagnostics, especially during the 2023 flu season.

When to get a flu test?

It’s a good idea to get a flu test if you have flu-like symptoms, such as:

• High fever (above 38°C)
• Shivers
• Muscle and joint pain
• Headache
• A cough (dry or wet) can be one of the symptoms of the flu or RSV.
• Sore throat
• Qatar
• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting (more common in children)

Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly, 1-4 days after infection, which can affect the body’s immunity. The test is best performed within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, when the concentration of the virus in the body is highest.

Why take a flu test?

Taking a flu test has many benefits:

• Rapid diagnosis: Allows rapid diagnosis of influenza and distinguishes it from other viral infections, such as the common cold or COVID-19.
• Early treatment: Prompt diagnosis of influenza allows early implementation of antiviral treatment, which shortens the duration of illness and reduces the risk of complications.
• Limiting the spread of the virus: Knowing that you have the flu, you can take appropriate precautions, such as isolation and avoiding contact with other people, which limits the spread of the virus.
• Peace of mind: In many cases, flu-like symptoms can be caused by other, less serious infections. A flu test can dispel doubts and reassure the patient.

Influenza test vs COVID-19

The symptoms of influenza and COVID-19 are very similar. In both cases, you may experience fever, cough, sore throat, headache and weakness. Therefore, when in doubt, it is worth taking a differential test to distinguish between influenza and COVID-19. Combo tests are available at pharmacies that simultaneously detect the influenza virus and coronavirus.

Who’s at risk for complications from the flu?

The flu can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, myocarditis or encephalitis, especially in immunocompromised people. The risk group for post-flu complications includes:

• Children under 5. years of age
• People over 65. years of age
• Pregnant women
• People with chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease or immune system diseases.

People at risk should take special care with flu prevention, including considering immunization. If they experience flu-like symptoms, they should take a flu test as soon as possible and consult a doctor.

Where can I get a flu test?

• Pharmacies offer a variety of products, including at-home diagnostic tests for flu.: Rapid diagnostic tests are available in pharmacies to do at home.
• Outpatient clinics: A primary care physician may order a laboratory test for flu or a home test.
• Private Labs: Many private labs offer flu tests.

How to take a flu test at home?

Rapid diagnostic tests available in pharmacies are simple to use and can help assess a patient’s immunity. Before performing the test, read the instructions included in the package carefully. The test involves taking a swab from the nose or throat with a special stick. The stick is then placed in a liquid solution and a few drops of the solution are applied to the test plate to read the result. The result is read after several minutes.

How to interpret the result of a flu test?

For rapid diagnostic tests, the result is read by the appearance or absence of colored lines on the test plate. Typically, one line indicates a negative result (absence of influenza virus), and two lines a positive result (presence of influenza virus). In the case of laboratory tests, the result is interpreted by a doctor.

What to do in case of a positive test result?

A positive flu test means that we are infected with the flu virus. In this case, a flu test should be performed to confirm the presence of the influenza virus.

• Stay at home and avoid contact with other people.
• Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
• Use symptomatic medications such as antipyretics and analgesics.
• For people at risk or severe influenza, the doctor may recommend antiviral treatment.

Flu prevention

The most effective way to prevent influenza is preventive vaccination. Vaccinations are recommended for all people over 6 months of age, especially people in the risk group, to minimize the risk of contracting influenza. In addition to vaccinations, it is also important to follow hygiene rules, such as:

• Częste mycie rąk jest kluczowe w zapobieganiu rozprzestrzeniania się wirusów, w tym RSV, wodą z mydłem

Remember that influenza is a serious disease that can lead to dangerous complications. That is why it is so important to quickly diagnose and implement appropriate treatment. The flu test is a simple and effective tool that allows you to quickly diagnose and take appropriate steps.