Where Can I Get a Flu Test?

Are you feeling under the weather? Wondering if that stuffy nose and cough are signs of something more serious?

As the flu season is upon us, it’s important to stay informed about where you can get a flu test.

In today’s blog, we will explain the complexities of influenza, its symptoms, how it spreads, and most importantly, where you can trust to get a reliable flu test.

What is Flu?

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. These viruses can cause mild to severe illness, and in some cases, can even lead to hospitalization or death.

What Are Flu Symptoms?

Recognizing the flu symptoms is essential for early detection and treatment. Flu symptoms can vary from person to person but commonly include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)

Where To Get a Flu Test?

When it comes to getting a flu test, Manhattan Medical Arts is your trusted partner in healthcare.

Manhattan Medicak Art’s state-of-the-art facility offers convenient and reliable flu test in NYC to help you diagnose and manage the flu symptoms effectively.

With a team of experienced healthcare professionals and cutting-edge technology, we ensure accurate and prompt results, allowing you to take control of your health with confidence.

How Influenza Spreads?

Influenza is primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby, or they can be inhaled into the lungs.

Additionally, the flu virus can also spread by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s mouth, nose, or eyes.

Types of Flu Tests

There are several types tests for flu are available, including:

• Rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs): These flu tests detect the viral antigens in respiratory specimens within 15-30 minutes, providing quick results but with lower sensitivity compared to molecular tests.
• Molecular tests (PCR): Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests detect influenza viral RNA in respiratory specimens with high sensitivity and specificity, providing accurate results within a few hours to a day.

• Viral culture: Viral culture involves growing influenza viruses collected from respiratory specimens in a laboratory setting. Although it is highly accurate, it is time-consuming and can take several days to yield results.

Each of these flu tests have their own advantages and limitations, and the choice of flu test may depend on factors such as availability, turnaround time, and sensitivity.

How is Flu Diagnosed?

Flu can be diagnosed through various methods, including:

• Clinical evaluation by a healthcare professional
• Rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs)
• Molecular tests (PCR)
• Viral culture
• Serological testing (blood tests)

These flu tests help healthcare providers determine whether an individual has influenza and which strain of the virus is causing the illness.

What to Expect During a Flu Test?

During a flu test, a healthcare provider will typically collect respiratory specimens, such as nasal or throat swabs, for analysis. The process is quick and relatively painless, and results are usually available within a short period, depending on the type of flu test performed. 

At Manhattan Medical Arts, our friendly staff will guide you through the testing process and ensure your comfort and convenience every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

– Disclaimer –

This blog is for informational & educational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.