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Rapid Flu (Influenza) Test

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can present as anything from a mild to severe illness, and at times can even lead to death.  These types of respiratory illness tend to increase seasonally, usually in the Fall and Winter months.  With so many different causes for similar illnesses, it can be difficult to know what the cause of any particular respiratory illness symptoms might be.

The most common cause of a respiratory illness is usually a virus.  Viruses shed proteins and other substances, also known as an antigen, which can be used to identify the different/unique virus.  Antigen tests use specialized techniques to identify these substances, and pinpoint or identify if the virus is present.

Results from this type of test can be made available in 10 to 15 minutes and can help identify if symptoms are due to an infection with the influenza virus or not.  Interpretation of these tests can help your healthcare provider better identify potential causes for respiratory illnesses, and if identified in time could help lead to an appropriate treatment, if one is available.

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$29.00
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Test Details

A rapid (i.e. antigen) flu test can be used to identify if you currently have or are infected with one or both of the most common types of influenza virus (influenza A and/or influenza B).

Your provider can potentially provide specialized treatment if the influenza virus is identified within a specific period of time and if it is appropriate.  Please ask your doctor or healthcare provider for more information.

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FAQs

WHAT IS AN ANTIGEN TEST?

By using a specialized filter with antibodies that target a variety of antigens unique to the Flu A and Flu B viruses, a small sample is filtered through the specialized antibody mixture.  If antigen is present, the antibodies will bind to them and create a positive response which can then be read/identified.

WHY DO I NEED THIS TEST?

If you believe you have “the flu” (Influenza) or have had nonspecific respiratory symptoms recently and want to better identify a potential cause.

WHAT TYPE OF SPECIMEN WILL BE COLLECTED FOR THIS TEST?

This test requires either a nasal or nasopharyngeal specimen collection.

AM I REQUIRED TO FAST FOR THIS LAB TEST?

No, fasting is not required. There are no dietary or medicinal restrictions to take this test.

IS A DOCTOR’S ORDER REQUIRED?

Any Lab Test Now’s ordering physician will provide the required physician’s order on your behalf.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO GET MY LAB TEST RESULTS?

Results from rapid antigen tests are usually available within 10-15 minutes.  Contact your testing location for more information regarding when the results will be available.

IS THIS TEST APPROVED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA)?

Yes.  All tests have been cleared for usage by the FDA under a CLIA Certificate of Waiver.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN IF I HAVE A POSITIVE TEST RESULT?

If you have a positive result for this test, it would indicate that viral antigen was identified and that you are considered to be infected with the virus and presumed to be contagious.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN IF I HAVE A NEGATIVE TEST RESULT?

If you have a negative result, it would mean that no viral antigen was found and it is most likely you are not infected with this particular type of virus at the time of test. It is still possible that the amount of virus was too low to detect with this initial test, or that you can still become infected later.  A negative result should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or other medical management decisions and should be combined with clinical observation and patient history in some cases

IF I AM INFECTED BUT DON’T HAVE SYMPTOMS, CAN I STILL SPREAD THE VIRUS?

Yes, some people who have been infected with these types of viruses might not display any symptoms (referred to as asymptomatic); however, they can still be contagious and spread the virus to other people.

WHAT IF I WANT TO DISCUSS THE RESULTS WITH A PHYSICIAN?

You can share your results with your healthcare provider or contact our telemedicine partner, DialCare, and they will assist you in interpreting the results. Any Lab Test Now does not diagnose or interpret results.