When we get a fever, aches, and a cough, we often think, "Oh... this is just a common cold." But sometimes this condition can be a little more severe. It's very difficult for the body, and with severe body aches, fever, and cough, you can't even get out of bed for days. At times like these, you may also think, "Is this not just a fever, maybe it's the flu?" So is there a way to know for sure whether this is really the flu or not? Yes, there is. That's why we do a 'flu test'. Let's talk about this today.
First of all, what is influenza?
Simply put, the flu is a respiratory infection caused by a virus called influenza. It is a little more severe than the common cold. This virus is also very easily transmitted from one person to another. It can be transmitted through droplets in the air when someone coughs or sneezes, or by touching a surface that has the virus on it and then touching their nose, mouth, or eyes.
Although it is usually more prevalent during the colder months, it can occur at any time of the year. The best thing is that getting the flu vaccine every year can greatly reduce the risk of developing this serious illness.
So does everyone need to take this flu test?
No, that's not necessary. Even if you have flu symptoms, if you're a healthy young person, your doctor may be able to prescribe treatment based on your symptoms without doing a test. Most people get better after a few days of rest.
However, people in certain risk groups are more likely to develop complications if they get the flu. For example, conditions like pneumonia can develop. For such people, it is very important to confirm that it is the flu and start treatment as soon as possible.
If you fall into one of these categories, your doctor may ask you to take a flu test:
- If the immune system is weak: such as cancer patients, HIV patients, or those taking immunosuppressive medications.
- If you have a chronic disease like diabetes: People with diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and asthma can get the flu more seriously.
- If you are a pregnant mother: Flu complications can occur due to changes in the body's immune system during pregnancy.
- If you are over 65 years of age or a child under 5 years of age.
- If you are hospitalized due to another medical condition.
If you have flu symptoms and you belong to one of these risk groups, be sure to see your doctor immediately.
What types of flu tests are there?
There are two main types of flu tests. Both involve testing a sample of secretions from your nose (respiratory sample).
| Test type | Simply put... |
|---|---|
| Rapid Antigen Detection | This is very quick. It's like the rapid antigen test for Covid. It looks for proteins (antigens) from the flu virus in a sample taken from your nose. You can get results in about 30 minutes. But it has a little less accuracy. |
| Molecular Assays | This is the most accurate method . It looks for the presence of the virus's genetic material in the sample. The PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test we all know is one of these types. Some molecular tests give results quickly (in 30 minutes), while others require sending them to a lab and taking several days to get the results. |
How is the test done? Does it hurt?
You have nothing to worry about. It's a very simple process that takes just a few minutes. You don't need to do anything special to prepare.
A test that a doctor will perform soon
Typically, a doctor will use one of these methods:
- Nasal Swab: This is the most common method. A doctor or nurse will insert a long cotton swab into your nostril and collect the secretions from the walls of your nose. Sometimes, the swab is inserted deep into your nose (nasopharyngeal swab) to collect a sample. This can be used for a quick test or to send to a lab.
- Nasal Wash / Aspirate: This method is used especially for babies and young children. Here, a little saline water is put into the nose and the secretions are sucked out with a suction device. The sample is then sent to the lab.
What are you feeling at this moment?
When you put the cotton swab in your nose, you may feel a slight tickling or gagging sensation . You may even cough. But this discomfort only lasts a few seconds and will soon go away.
At-home flu tests
There are now home flu test kits available from pharmacies. In these, you have to take a sample from your own nose. So it is very important to read the instructions on the package carefully and follow them exactly.
There are two types of tests that can be done at home:
1. Rapid Antigen: Results are shown within about 30 minutes.
2. Laboratory Tests: You take the sample, put it in the package that came with the kit, and send it to the lab. It takes a few days for the results to come back.
How to understand the test results?
There are three main results that can come from a test.
| Result | What does that mean? |
|---|---|
| Positive | This means that you have the influenza virus in your body. That means you have the flu. |
| Negative | This means that the test did not detect the virus. However, it is not 100% accurate. If you have a test that is less accurate, such as a rapid antigen, you may get a false negative result . If you have severe flu symptoms, your doctor may decide that you have the flu and treat you even if the result is negative. |
| Invalid | This means that something went wrong with the test. Maybe the sample was not taken properly, or there was a problem with the test kit itself. If this happens, you will need to take the test again. |
The most important thing is that a negative rapid antigen test does not mean you have the flu 100% of the time. The most accurate test is a PCR test. Always pay attention to your symptoms.
When do you need to talk to the doctor?
If you have any questions or concerns about your test results or your symptoms, be sure to talk to your doctor. It's especially good to ask about things like:
- Can you explain my test results?
- Do you think this result is correct?
- Will I need to have any further tests?
- What treatment do you recommend for me?
Remember, flu symptoms can quickly become severe, especially in those in high-risk groups. So don't be suspicious. Talk to your doctor for advice.
Take-Home Message
- Flu is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. Not all fevers are flu.
- Healthy people usually do not need a test, but it is important to get a test to confirm the disease for people with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, pregnant women, the elderly, or young children.
- There are two types of tests: Rapid Antigen, which gives quick results but is less accurate, and Molecular tests such as PCR, which are more accurate.
- Even if a test result is negative, if you have severe symptoms, your doctor may assume you have the flu and begin treatment.
- If you have any doubts about your test results or medical condition, please consult your doctor without delay.
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