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What to Know Before Getting a Flu Test

A flu test can help determine if the influenza virus is causing your symptoms.

October 6, 2026 · 2 min read

If you have a fever, cough, body aches or other flu-like symptoms, your health care provider may recommend a flu test. A flu test can help determine if the influenza virus is causing your symptoms.

How Is a Flu Test Done?

Most flu tests use a sample taken from your nose or throat. A health care professional may use a swab to collect the sample.

Some tests can provide results quickly, while others may take longer. The type of test used can depend on where you receive care.

When Should You Get Tested?

Flu testing is usually most helpful when it is done soon after symptoms begin.

What Do the Results Mean?

A positive test means the test found signs of the influenza virus.

A negative result does not always mean you do not have the flu. Some rapid flu tests can miss infections. Your health care provider will consider your symptoms and other factors when deciding what your results mean.

What Happens After a Flu Test?

If you have the flu, your health care provider may recommend rest, fluids and medicines to help manage your symptoms.

Some people may also be prescribed an antiviral medicine. These medicines work best when started early, especially within the first two days after symptoms begin.

Talk to your health care provider if you have flu symptoms or questions about whether you should be tested.

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Diagnosing Flu"
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Information on Rapid Molecular Assays, RT-PCR, and Other Molecular Assays for Diagnosis of Influenza Virus Infection"
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Treatment of Flu"

Written by

Michelle Barney, PharmD

Clinical Solutions Manager

Michelle Barney is a Clinical Solutions Manager at Lumistry, where she brings the practicing pharmacist’s perspective into the creation and evolution of pharmacy technology solutions. A clinical pharmacist by training, Michelle has built her career across retail pharmacy and health technology, including serving as Vice President of Clinical Operations at VUCA Health prior to its acquisition by Lumistry. She has held leadership roles spanning clinical operations, product, and marketing, and brings firsthand experience managing pharmacy teams and workflows. In her current role, Michelle partners closely with cross-functional teams to ensure Lumistry’s products are rooted in real-world pharmacy needs—helping pharmacies work more efficiently, confidently, and effectively in their day-to-day practice.

All information on this site is provided “as-is” for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. You should consult with a medical professional if you have any questions about your health.