Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Test

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KEY POINTS

• A rapid influenza diagnostic test looks for infection caused by the flu virus.
• Usually, a positive test means that you have the flu. A negative (normal) result may mean that you do not have the flu. But even if the test is negative, if you have flu symptoms and you live in an area where many people have the flu, you healthcare provider may still treat you for flu.
• Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions about the test or the results.

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What is a rapid influenza test?

A rapid influenza diagnostic test (RIDT) looks for infection caused by an influenza (flu) virus, subtypes A and B. Different brands of the test may show different results.

Why is it done?

Your healthcare provider may use an RIDT to find out if a flu virus is causing your symptoms. You may have chills, sweating, fever, cough, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches, sore throat, or tiredness. Flu symptoms can start quickly and usually last 3 to 7 days. Having these symptoms does not always mean that you have the flu.

RIDTs are most accurate when you get the test in the first day or two after symptoms start. If your symptoms suggest that you may have the flu and the test is positive, your healthcare provider may prescribe an antiviral medicine. This medicine may help you feel better sooner than if you do not have treatment.

Your healthcare provider can diagnose flu, during flu season, without giving you a RIDT or without seeing a positive test result.

How do I prepare for this test?

Usually you do not need to do anything special before this test.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions.

How is the test done?

Your healthcare provider will rub a cotton swab against the back of your throat or in your nose. Your healthcare provider may be able to do this test in his or her office, or the test will be sent to a lab. The provider’s office or the lab will have the result in about 15 minutes.

What does the test result mean?

Usually, a positive test means that you have the flu. A negative (normal) result may mean that you do not have the flu. But even if the test is negative, if you have flu symptoms and you live in an area where many people have the flu, you healthcare provider may still treat you for flu. Your healthcare provider can explain what the test results mean with your symptoms.

What if my test result is not normal?

Test results are only one part of a larger picture that takes into account your medical history, physical exam, and current health. Sometimes a test needs to be repeated to check the first result. Talk to your healthcare provider about your result and ask questions, such as:

• If you need more tests
• What kind of treatment you might need
• What other changes you might need to make