Flu symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe distress. Here are some common signs that may indicate that it’s time to get tested.
Symptoms We See
Fever or chills, though not everyone with flu runs a fever
Body aches, often severe
Cough
Sore throat
Headache
Fatigue that can last well past the other symptoms
Vomiting and diarrhea, more common in children than adults
Flu tends to come on suddenly. If you felt fine this morning and awful by the afternoon, it’s worth getting checked.
When to Come In
The sooner you come in, the more options we have to help. Starting an antiviral within the first 48 hours of flu symptoms gives you the best chance at a faster recovery. If you’ve been sick longer, don’t worry, we can still test and treat your symptoms.
Come in sooner if you are pregnant, over 65, have a long-term condition such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, or you are caring for someone who is.
When to Go to the Emergency Room
You have trouble breathing or shortness of breath
You have chest pain or pressure
You are confused, or hard to wake
You have a seizure
You are not urinating, or cannot keep fluids down
You start to improve, then get worse again with fever and a worse cough
In children: lips or face turning blue, ribs pulling in with each breath, or no tears when crying
If any of these symptoms describe you or your child, go directly to the emergency room.
How We Diagnose and Treat Flu
Symptom review
A provider will ask about your symptoms and when they started. Timing decides what treatment we can offer.
Rapid flu swab
A flu test will be performed with a nasal swab; results are typically ready in about 15 minutes.
Treatment plan
If your flu test is positive and you’re within the window, your provider can prescribe an antiviral. If it is not the flu, we treat what you do have.
What to do at home
Providers will offer information on symptom relief, how long you’re contagious, when you can go back to work or school, and what to do if symptoms worsen.
Flu, COVID and Strep Testing
Flu · about 15 min
COVID-19 · about 15 min
Strep · about 5 min
Flu, COVID, and strep often look alike at the start, so we can test for more than one in the same visit rather than sending you back a second time.
Flu and cold symptoms often overlap, and a test is the only way to be sure what the best treatment option is for you.
Why the First 48 Hours Matter
Antiviral medicines work by slowing the virus down, which only helps while it is still multiplying. When started within about 48 hours of your first symptoms, they can shorten the illness and lower the chance of complications.
After the 48-hour window, we can still test and treat your symptoms, but the antiviral isn’t as effective. Stop in for a flu test today to fast-track your recovery.
Flu Treatment Cost and Insurance
We bill most insurance plans. A flu testing and treatment visit is billed as an office visit rather than a fixed product price, so what you pay depends on your plan.
Flu Testing Near You
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
