When respiratory viruses are spreading around, you could get symptoms like cough, fever, sore throat and tiredness. And you might want to know whether the flu, COVID-19 or RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is causing them.
Since these infections can seem very similar, testing can help you get answers, so you know what to do next.
Whether you’re testing at home or in a clinic, here’s what you need to know about your options, when to test and what results really mean.
Not sure which virus you have? Testing can help.
Flu, COVID and RSV all have similar symptoms, so you might not be able to tell them apart based on how you feel. Testing is the best way to find out what’s making you sick.
We now have more testing options than ever, including at-home tests and combination tests that check for more than one virus. Jennifer Peng, a pharmacist with Banner Health, helped us know which kind of test to use and when to use it.
What types of tests are available?
You can take a rapid (antigen) or PCR test for various viruses. Depending on the test, you could take it at home or in a clinic.
“At-home tests are antigen tests that detect part of the virus. They tend to be less sensitive than clinical tests that are processed in a lab. At-home tests are an easy way to find out if you are infected without going to a testing site or medical office,” Dr. Peng said.
“Clinical tests are usually taken by a health care provider and sent to a lab for testing. They look for the virus’s genetic material. These tests are more sensitive because they can find smaller amounts of the virus than antigen tests,” Dr. Peng said.
1. Rapid tests
These kits are easy to use and give results in about 15 to 30 minutes.
- Single-virus tests: These test for COVID or flu
- How to get them: Available at most pharmacies, retail stores and online
Tip: Always read the instructions carefully and check the expiration date before using an at-home test.
2. Combo tests
Combo tests use a single swab to check for flu A and B, COVID and/or RSV. These may be recommended if you’re high risk or very sick or for young children.
- You can often get tested at an urgent care center or a health care provider’s office.
- You may be able to test yourself at home and send the sample to a lab for testing.
- The test may be rapid (same day) or sent to a lab (results in one to two days).
3. PCR tests
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests are usually done in clinics or hospitals. It takes longer to get results, but they are more accurate than other tests. They may be used to confirm results from other tests or when you need more precise testing.
When should I test?
Timing matters. “It’s best to test soon after your symptoms start, since starting treatment right away can help make symptoms less severe, shorten the time you are sick and prevent complications, especially if you’re at higher risk,” Dr. Peng said.
Antiviral treatments work best when you begin taking them as soon as possible. For flu treatments, it’s best when you start within 48 hours of when symptoms start. For COVID, it’s best to start within five days.
You should consider testing if you:
- Have symptoms like fever, cough or fatigue
- Know you were exposed to someone with flu, RSV or COVID-19
- Are at higher risk for complications, which includes people over age 65, infants, young children, pregnant women or people with chronic health conditions
- Are immunocompromised
“At-home tests can also be used before gathering with others, to help protect those who have a higher chance of getting very sick due to factors like their age or having certain medical conditions,” Dr. Peng said.
What do my test results mean?
Your results will show up as either positive or negative.
If your test is positive
You likely have that virus. “Talk with a health care provider for medical advice and next steps, which may include self-care or prescription treatment,” Dr. Peng said.
You should also:
- Stay home, rest and get plenty of fluids
- Avoid contact with other people, especially those who are at higher risk
- Call your doctor if symptoms get worse
If your test is negative
You still might be sick with the virus you tested for, because some viruses don’t show up right away, especially with home tests. “It’s possible that there was not enough of the virus in the sample for the test to find it,” Dr. Peng said.
You should:
- Retest in a day or two whether you have symptoms or not
- Practice good hygiene by washing your hands often, staying away from other people and wearing a mask
- Contact a health care provider if you still have symptoms after a negative test, so you can rule out other causes or get a more accurate test
- Contact a provider if you’re not sure how to interpret your results
Should I see a doctor?
Testing is helpful, but it’s just the start. A medical provider can:
- Confirm your diagnosis
- Prescribe treatment like Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) or Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir)
- Help you know when it’s safe to return to work or school
You should see a health care provider right away if:
- You’re having trouble breathing
- You’re in a high-risk group
- Your symptoms are getting worse
- You’re very sick
Tips for preventing respiratory infections
Testing and treatment can help you recover, but you can also take steps to help keep from getting sick in the first place.
“Get your yearly well exam, routine screenings and preventive vaccines to protect yourself,” Dr. Peng said. “Vaccines are the most important tool for prevention. They help your immune system create antibodies that protect you from disease. Talk to your health care provider about what’s recommended for you.”
Schedule your annual flu shot at a Banner Urgent Care near you.
Take action at the first sign of symptoms
Don’t wait to see how you feel. Early testing and treatment can help:
- Shorten your illness
- Make your symptoms less severe
- Reduce your risk of complications
- Protect the people around you
Banner Health offers in-person, urgent care and virtual care options so you can get support when and where you need it. Schedule an appointment with one of our providers.
