Rapid Flu Testing

A rapid influenza test uses a simple nasal swab and returns a result during the same appointment. Knowing whether symptoms are caused by the flu changes what happens next, particularly in the first day or two of illness when antiviral treatment is most useful.

When Testing Is Useful

Sudden fever, aches, and cough — symptoms that come on quickly during flu season.
Higher-risk patients — older adults and people managing chronic conditions, where early treatment matters most.
Household exposure — when someone at home has already been diagnosed.

Results in Context

A rapid test is one input, not the whole answer. Dr. Sofya Kleyn, Dr. Ilya Kleyn, and Dr. Leonid Tafler, DO weigh the result alongside the exam and the patient's history, and may add strep testing, blood work, or a chest exam when the picture is not clear.