How Do You Know If You Need a Flu Test?
Flu symptoms can feel a lot like a bad cold or COVID, but knowing which one you have changes your treatment options. If you’ve had symptoms for less than 48 hours, getting tested right away gives your provider the best window to prescribe antiviral medication that can shorten your illness and reduce complications.
Common Flu Symptoms
- Sudden onset fever or chills
- Body aches and muscle pain
- Fatigue and weakness
- Headache
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
You Should Get a Flu Test If
- Symptoms came on suddenly and feel more severe than a typical cold
- You are in a high-risk group, including adults 65 and older, pregnant women, or people with chronic health conditions
- Someone in your household has been diagnosed with the flu
- You have had symptoms for less than 48 hours and want access to antiviral treatment
Antivirals work best when started within 48 hours of your first symptoms. If you think you have the flu, don’t wait to be seen. [Find a Flu Test Near You]
When to Go to the ER Instead
Most flu cases can be treated at urgent care, but some symptoms signal a more serious complication that requires emergency attention. Go to the ER or call 911 if you or someone you are caring for experiences:
- 1Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- 2Persistent chest pain or pressure
- 3Confusion or altered mental status
- 4Severe or persistent vomiting preventing hydration
- 5Symptoms that improve then return with fever and worsening cough
- 6Bluish lips or face
How the Flu Test Works
Getting a rapid flu test at urgent care is quick and straightforward with OnPoint. Here is what to expect from the moment you walk in:
Testing for Covid and Strep in the Same Visit
Flu, COVID, and strep throat share many of the same symptoms. If your provider suspects more than one may be at play, we can test for all three during the same visit so you leave with a complete picture.
A note on accuracy: rapid flu tests are accurate, but no test is perfect. If your test comes back negative and your symptoms are consistent with the flu, your provider may still recommend antiviral treatment based on clinical judgment.
After Your Flu Test
With same-day flu testing, once your results are in, your provider will walk you through what they mean and what comes next. You won’t leave with just a piece of paper.
If You Test Positive
If you test positive for the flu, your provider will discuss antiviral medication options with you. Antivirals work best when started within 48 hours of your first symptoms, so getting tested early gives you the best chance at a faster recovery. Most common antivirals can be prescribed on-site and sent to your preferred pharmacy.
If You Test Negative
A negative flu test doesn’t always mean you’re in the clear. If your symptoms are consistent with the flu, your provider may still recommend treatment based on clinical judgment. Your provider will also evaluate whether another illness, such as COVID or strep, may be responsible for your symptoms.
If You Need Follow-Up Care
A negative flu test doesn’t always mean you’re in the clear. If your symptoms are consistent with the flu, your provider may still recommend treatment based on clinical judgment. Your provider will also evaluate whether another illness, such as COVID or strep, may be responsible for your symptoms.
Why OnPoint Urgent Care for Flu Testing
A lot of places can tell you whether you have the flu. OnPoint gets you tested, diagnosed, and treated in the same visit, without the wait of an emergency room or the delay of scheduling a doctor’s appointment.
We Accept Most Major Insurance Plans
Whether you have health insurance or not, we’re here to help. OnPoint works with a wide range of insurance providers so you can focus on getting the care you need. Our staff is happy to verify your coverage before your visit and answer any billing questions you may have.
✓ No insurance? Self-pay and cash-pay options are available at all six locations.
Call us with any billing questions before your visit.
