Influenza Indicator
This rapid in-clinic test detects whether you’re suffering from the influenza virus, commonly known as the flu. The influenza test detects the presence of influenza A and/or influenza B through a throat or nasal swab for the rapid differential diagnosis of influenza A and B viral infections. Common symptoms of the flu include fever, fatigue, aches and pains.
About the Influenza Indicator Test
Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) is a newer method that is generally more sensitive than culture with improved detection rates over culture of 2-23%.3 However, RT-PCR is expensive, complex and must be performed in specialised laboratories. The Influenza Test, (Influenza A+B rapid test) qualitatively detects the presence of Influenza A and/or Influenza B antigen in nasopharyngeal swab or throat swab or nasal aspirate specimens, providing results within 15 minutes.
The Influenza Test, (Influenza A+B rapid test) is a qualitative, lateral flow immunoassay for the detection of Influenza A and Influenza B nucleoproteins in nasopharyngeal swab, throat swab or nasal aspirate specimens. In this test, antibodies specific to the Influenza A and Influenza B nucleoproteins are separately coated on the test line regions of the test dipstick. During testing, the extracted specimen reacts with the antibody to Influenza A and/or Influenza B that are coated onto particles. The mixture migrates up the membrane to react with the antibody to Influenza A and/or Influenza B on the membrane and generates one or two coloured lines in the test regions. The presence of this coloured line in either or both of the test regions indicates a positive result. To serve as a procedural control, a coloured line will always appear in the control region if the test has performed properly.
Aftercare
If your test is positive, it is highly likely you have the flu. You do not need to contact your GP unless your symptoms become severe eg breathing difficulty or temperature above 39 degrees for more than 3 days or if you are on the highly vulnerable list. You can treat fever and general aches with paracetamol and plenty of fluids. Please avoid other paracetamol based medications while using paracetamol. Please do not exceed the recommended daily dosage of 2 tablets every 4 hours with a maximum of 8 in 24 hours. If you are worried at any time please contact your own GP or 111. For further advice.
If your recent test for Influenza is negative. It is likely you were not infected with influenza at the time of your test. It is common for many viruses to give symptoms similar to influenza. These symptoms such as fever, fatigue, aches and pains can be relieved with simple over the counter remedies such as paracetamol. Please seek advice at your local pharmacy. Please ensure you take a Covid-19 lateral flow test as Covid -19 should be out ruled. If you are concerned about worsening symptoms please call your own GP/111.