Flu rates have gone down drastically in the past year and a half due to social distancing and other health-safety precautions, but it’s still possible to get sick with the virus. If you suspect that you may have the flu, consider getting a rapid flu test!

Our AFC Urgent Care Gastonia team explains why rapid flu tests are effective and accurate below, so keep reading.

How Is the Flu Different from COVID-19?

The flu and COVID-19 are two respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by two different viruses. The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, while COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

The flu infects the nose, throat and sometimes the lung, and can cause mild to severe illness. Experiencing the below symptoms at one time instead of gradually is a tell-tale sign that you may have the flu. If this is the case, it’s important to get a rapid flu test to confirm that you do, indeed, have the virus.

Common Flu Symptoms

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Physical fatigue

Is AFC’s Rapid Flu Test Accurate?

Yes, it is! Out of 100 tests, 90 to 95% will show accurate diagnosis.

Alongside rapid flu tests, our AFC center also offers rapid strep and COVID-19 tests, which all provide accurate results in 15 minutes or less without the necessity of making an appointment. In the meantime, the below-mentioned health-safety precautions work to not only keep yourself and others safe from COVID-19 but safe from the flu and strep throat, too!

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.

Feeling under the weather? Visit our AFC Urgent Care Gastonia center today to get your rapid test!