The only way to know for sure is to get tested.
But testing for respiratory viruses at home has gotten a lot easier.
This three-virus test is the only over-the-counter (OTC) test available for home use to detect the flu.
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The test kit delivers results within 30 minutes.
This is especially important if you or anyone youre in regular contact with is in a high-risk group.
People in high-risk groups have an increased likelihood of developing severe complications from respiratory infections like flu and COVID-19.
Symptoms alone cant differentiate the flu from COVID-19.
An OTC test can detect if you have flu or COVID-19, which have different incubation and contagious periods.
Getting an answer quickly in your home can prevent you from transmitting the virus before or after symptoms appear.
Using the COVID-19 test kits has become routine for many people.
Where Do You Buy an At-Home Flu Test?
Pfizer notes that the test may be reimbursable under your health plan benefits.
Check with your insurance provider regarding coverage.
Out of pocket, a flu test may cost over $100 at a pharmacy or urgent care clinic.
After swabbing, place the vial in the test unit.
In 30 minutes, test unit will light up with a positive or negative result.
Is There a Saliva Test?
There is no at-home flu test that uses saliva.
The Lucira test is the only approved at-home flu test.
It uses a nasal swab, like the COVID-19 test kits.
Theres a light for the three viruses: influenza A, influenza B, and COVID-19.
Positive and negative lights flash if the results are invalid.
This can show up for one or more viruses, but any invalid result invalidates the entire test.
In people experiencing symptoms of a respiratory virus, the at-home flu and COVID-19 test is accurate.
If you get a negative test but continue to have symptoms, contact a healthcare provider.
They can advise you on managing your symptoms and let you know if you qualify for antiviral medications.
Medical treatments called antivirals can help you fight off the flu or COVID-19.
They can make you better faster and help prevent serious complications.
It can detect influenza A, influenza B, and COVID-19.
you might buy the combined OTC test for about $50 for a single-use kit.
It uses a nasal swab and provides results in 30 minutes.
you’re free to buy the at-home flu test kit on the manufacturers website.
The company has yet to announce plans to make it available in retail stores.
Health insurance reimbursement information is not yet available.
Anyone over age 2 can use the Lucira OTC flu test.
To take the test, collect a nasal swab and swirl it in the test vial.
The test will display a positive or negative readout for influenza A, influenza B, and COVID-19.
Let a healthcare provider know if youre positive for influenza or COVID-19.
They can determine if you could benefit from medicines to fight the virus, called antivirals.
Food and Drug Administration.FDA authorizes first over-the-counter at-home test to detect both influenza and COVID-19 viruses.
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Food and Drug Administration.Lucira COVID-19 & Flu Home Test[label].
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Similarities and differences between flu and COVID-19.
Lucira by Pfizer.Get started with Lucira by Pfizer COVID-19 & flu test.
Lucira by Pfizer.Frequently asked questions.
Mira.How much does a flu test cost without insurance in 2024.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Preventing spread of respiratory viruses when you’re sick.
