Do I Need to Get a Rapid Flu Test?

In years past, it was a little easier to tell whether you had the flu. But now, during the coronavirus pandemic, a flu test is perhaps more necessary due to the similarity of the two viruses.

If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, it’s important to get a rapid flu test at our AFC center! Our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team explains why and shares some more helpful information below.

How Can I Tell That I Have the Flu and Not COVID-19?

Well, truthfully, the best way to accurately diagnose your sickness is by getting tested. Symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 are similar (we’ve listed them below), but it’s important to get tested for COVID-19 first because this virus is still not yet under control.

If you aren’t able to get quickly tested, a tell-tale sign of the flu, according to experts, is to suddenly experience a fever and chills.

Common Flu and COVID-19 Symptoms

  • Fever or feeling feverish/having chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle pain or body aches
  • Headache
  • Vomiting and diarrhea

Do Rapid Flu Tests Really Work?

Yes, they do! In most studies, the specificity of influenza testing is 90–95%, meaning that out of 100 tests, 90 to 95 of the positive results will be correct.

If you believe you may have the flu or another illness such as strep or COVID-19, our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville center offers rapid testing for all of these sicknesses with accurate results in 15 minutes or less. Plus, you don’t even need to make an appointment! In the meantime, exercise the below-mentioned health-safety precautions to keep yourself and others healthy.

Health-Safety Precautions

  • Frequently wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
  • If you don’t have access to soap and water, use alcohol-rich hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible.
  • Cover your mouth with a tissue or elbow when you sneeze or cough.

Not feeling at your best? No appointments are needed to get a rapid test, so don’t wait to visit our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville today!