flu screening test preparation

Overview

A flu screening test is a quick test to check if you have the influenza virus, which causes the flu. It uses a soft swab from your nose or throat to look for the virus.

Yes, flu is very common. Many people get the flu each year, especially during flu season (fall and winter).

Anyone can catch the flu, but it can be more serious for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, but this is more common in children than in adults.

Symptoms in children

• Fever higher than in adults
• Vomiting and diarrhea more common
• Ear pain
• Decreased energy or irritability

Symptoms in older adults

• Fever may be lower or absent
• Confusion or dizziness
• Worsening of chronic conditions like heart failure or diabetes
• Weakness and fatigue

Causes

Main causes

• Flu is caused by influenza viruses, which spread through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
• You can also get the flu by touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

Risk factors

• Being around people who have the flu
• Not getting the annual flu vaccine
• Having a weakened immune system
• Living or working in crowded places like schools or nursing homes
• Chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe symptoms like trouble breathing, chest pain, or confusion, call your local emergency number right away.
• If you are at high risk for complications (young child, older adult, pregnant, chronic condition) and have flu symptoms, contact your doctor within 24 hours.
• If symptoms are getting better then suddenly get worse (fever returns, cough worsens).

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make an appointment with your doctor if you have flu-like symptoms and are not at high risk but want to confirm if it is flu.
• If you have had symptoms for more than a few days and they are not improving.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and may perform a flu screening test. This test involves gently swabbing the inside of your nose or throat to collect a sample. The sample is then tested for influenza viruses.

Tests that may be done

• Rapid influenza diagnostic test (RIDT) – gives results in about 15 minutes.
• Molecular test (PCR) – more accurate, results in a few hours to a day.

What to expect at your appointment

No special preparation is needed for a flu test. You do not need to fast or stop any medications. The healthcare worker will use a soft swab to collect mucus from your nose or throat. It may tickle or feel uncomfortable for a few seconds, but it is not painful. The test is quick. After the test, you can go home and continue with your day.

Treatment

Treatment for the flu focuses on relieving symptoms and helping your body fight the virus. Most people recover at home with rest and fluids. Sometimes doctors may prescribe antiviral medicines (not antibiotics) if caught early, especially for people at high risk.

Self-care at home

• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink lots of fluids like water, broth, or clear soups.
• Use a humidifier or take steamy showers to ease cough and congestion.
• Gargle with warm salt water for a sore throat.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers (ask your pharmacist which is best for you).
• Stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the flu.

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications if you are at high risk or if symptoms started within the last 48 hours. These medicines can help shorten the illness and reduce complications. Do not take antibiotics for the flu – they do not work against viruses. Always follow your doctor's advice about treatment.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat the flu.

Living with this condition

If you have the flu, plan to stay home and rest for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (without using fever-reducing medicine). This helps you recover and prevents spreading the virus. Most people feel better within a week, but a cough and tiredness may last longer.

Lifestyle tips

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
• Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and countertops.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Stay away from others while you are sick.

Diet and exercise

When you are sick, focus on staying hydrated and eating light, easy-to-digest foods like soups, crackers, and fruits. Do not exercise strenuously until you feel better – gentle activity like short walks is okay once your fever is gone.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being sick can feel isolating and frustrating. It is normal to feel low or anxious. Talk to family or friends by phone or video chat. Rest and recovery are your priorities. If you feel very worried or depressed, reach out to a mental health professional.

Prevention

Yes, you can reduce your risk of getting the flu by getting an annual flu vaccine (flu shot), washing your hands, and avoiding close contact with sick people.

Vaccines

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. It is especially important for people at high risk and those who care for them. The vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most common flu strains.

Screening programmes

Routine flu screening is not usually needed for healthy people. However, during flu season, your doctor may recommend testing if you have symptoms and are at high risk.

Complications

If left untreated

• Pneumonia (infection of the lungs)
• Worsening of chronic health conditions like asthma or heart disease
• Ear infections (especially in children)
• Sinus infections
• Dehydration

Long-term outlook

Most people recover from the flu without any long-term problems. With rest and good care, symptoms usually improve within a week. However, the flu can be serious for some people. Getting the vaccine and seeking early medical care if needed can help prevent complications. The outlook is generally very good with proper care.

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