One of the key diagnostic procedures we offer is the flu test. This test determines if an individual is infected with the influenza virus. Our healthcare professionals collect a sample from your body, usually from your nose or throat, through swabbing or aspirating. This sample of respiratory secretions is then carefully analyzed in our state-of-the-art laboratory to detect the viral RNA. APT Urgent Care recommends a flu test when our patients are experiencing symptoms suggestive of influenza. These symptoms include sudden onset of fever (100.4°F or higher), chills, sweats, body aches, fatigue, headache, cough, sore or scratchy throat, and nasal congestion or runny nose. Additional symptoms can sometimes include diarrhea and vomiting. We encourage our patients to get a flu test as soon as these symptoms appear, especially if they have been in close contact with someone who has been diagnosed with the flu. A positive flu test verifies whether symptoms are caused by the influenza virus. The results aid our healthcare professionals in identifying the specific strain of influenza virus, guiding the appropriate antiviral medications, and determining the most effective treatment plan. By identifying individuals with the flu, APT Urgent Care can recommend isolation measures to prevent the spread of the virus to others. Flu testing aids in monitoring the prevalence and spread of influenza within our community. APT Urgent Care offers different types of flu tests, including rapid influenza diagnostic tests that provide results within approximately 15 minutes. However, these are not as accurate as standard lab tests. We also offer rapid molecular assays, direct and indirect fluorescent antibody staining, and viral cultures.