Influenza Test Vs. Rapid Flu Test: What’s The Difference?

Both influenza tests and rapid flu tests diagnose influenza; there are only two distinctions between them, but before knowing those, let’s look at each test in more detail first. So that you understand the difference more clearly. 

Influenza (flu) test

An influenza test is a laboratory test used to diagnose the presence of the influenza virus. This test is carried out on a respiratory specimen and focuses on detecting the existence of antigen or viral RNA in the sample. 

Rapid flu test

A rapid flu test is a diagnostic test in which a health care professional finds the influenza virus in a patient’s respiratory specimen with the help of a nasal or throat swab. 

Also, do not forget to get in touch with United Lab Care for both tests in Chicago. 

Difference between flu and influenza test 

Although both tests identify influenza, the only distinction between them is how quickly and accurately they can deliver results.  

Influenza tests take several days to produce results but are generally more accurate and reliable than rapid flu tests. A rapid flu test, on the other hand, produces results quickly, typically within 15 to 30 minutes but is less reliable. 

Symptoms of influenza that indicate you need to test yourself 

The signs and symptoms of influenza range from mild to life-threatening and may include cough, fever, sore throat, body aches, runny or stuffy nose, headache, fatigue, and chills. Furthermore, most of these symptoms are like those of the common cold, which is why the test is necessary to know whether you have influenza virus or not. 

Moreover, getting tested and receiving a correct diagnosis of the flu will allow you to manage your symptoms and stop the virus from spreading to others. 

The full procedure of the rapid and Influenza test 

Influenza Test (Flu Culture): 

1. Specimen collection: A medical professional firstly will take a patient’s respiratory specimen with the help of a nasal or throat swab. 
2. Transport to the lab: Here in this step, the specimen is sent to a lab for virus analysis. The sample should be transported to the lab as quickly as possible for accurate results. 
3. Viral isolation: Viral isolation takes several days because in this the sample is put in a culture medium and observed for the growth of the influenza virus.  
4. Results: Once the testing process is complete, the healthcare provider will inform the patient of the diagnosis.  

Rapid Flu Test

1. Specimen collection: With a swab the respiratory specimen from the patient will be collected first. 
2. Testing: A healthcare professional will insert a swab into a specialized device that scans for influenza viral antigens.  
3.  Results: You will get results within 15–30 minutes. 

In conclusion, both influenza and rapid flu test Chicago involve taking a respiratory specimen from the patient. 

Treatment options for influenza (flu)

Treatment options for influenza depend on the severity of the symptoms and the patient’s general health. In addition, the majority of the time, home remedies minimize the effects of the flu. So, let’s explore some most effective home remedies: 

1. Rest: It’s essential to get plenty of sleep-in order to aid the body in battling the virus and healing. 
2. Fluids: Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, broth, and herbal tea, can help prevent dehydration and the thinning of mucus in the respiratory tract. 
3. Medications: Medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen also help to reduce fever and relieve body aches.  

Utilize Ulc’s (United Lab Care) most trustworthy testing services 

Ignoring the influenza symptoms puts you in danger. Therefore, if you experience any of the above symptoms, you should get tested. Additionally, you can contact ULC (United Lab Care) for the test if you reside in Chicago. Their team carefully and hygienically collects your sample, and within a few days, they deliver the results.