Even in the age of COVID-19, the flu is still a threat. Yes, flu rates have thankfully gone down due to additional health-safety precautions, but it’s still possible to get sick with the flu virus.
If you are experiencing flu symptoms, it’s important to get a rapid flu test from our AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway center. We explain why below, so keep reading!
How Can I Know If I Have the Flu?
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to fight against the flu is by getting the annual flu vaccine.
One of the tell-tale signs that you have the flu is if you start to feel poorly all at once instead of over a period of time. If this is the case, it’s important to get a rapid flu test to confirm that you do, indeed, have the virus. We’ve listed some common symptoms of the flu below.
Common Flu Symptoms
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Physical fatigue
How Accurate Is the Rapid Flu Test?
In most studies, the specificity of influenza testing is 90–95%, meaning that out of 100 tests, 90 to 95 will result in an accurate diagnosis.
Our AFC center also offers rapid tests for other common viruses, such as strep throat and COVID-19. Our test kits provide accurate results in 15 minutes or less, and you don’t even need an appointment to get one! So, if you are experiencing any flu, strep or COVID-19 symptoms, don’t hesitate to visit our AFC center to get a rapid test to confirm your diagnosis. In the meantime, stick to the below-mentioned health-safety precautions to do your best to keep others as healthy as possible.
Health-Safety Precautions
- Frequently wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- If you don’t have access to soap and water, use alcohol-rich hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible.
- Cover your mouth with a tissue or elbow when you sneeze or cough.
Feeling less than your best? Visit our AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highwaycenter today!
