We have all had at least one of the listed illnesses at one point or another in our lives. They are annoying to deal with, and feeling sick is never a fun experience. Getting tested right away when you are feeling sick is the best way to avoid getting worse or having to deal with the illness longer than necessary, and ARCpoint Labs of San Rafael is happy to provide such testing for you. Here is everything you need to know about our rapid test options for respiratory infections.
Rapid Influenza A/B Testing
An RIDT is a rapid test used to detect the flu virus. This test can detect both influenza type A and B, and is about 70% percent accurate at detecting the virus. The accuracy of the test may depend on the individual, but false positives only occur in about 5% – 10% of patients, while false negatives may occur in 30% of patients. Don’t let this sway you from getting tested, though; the occurrence of these false negatives and false positives is typically dependent on when an individual is tested (most negatives mostly occur at the beginning of the flu season, while false negatives occur toward the end of flu season).
Despite the small risk of an incorrect test, getting tested is always a good idea if you are looking for treatment for your symptoms. Many flu symptoms are similar to cold symptoms, and both viruses cannot be cured by antibiotics, meaning the treatment plan used while sick is often the same for both illnesses depending on the severity of symptoms. However, getting tested can help stop the spread of the virus and enable a person to get a doctor’s note for missed school or work.
RSV Testing
RSV, otherwise known as Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a viral infection that causes symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and fatigue. Sometimes this virus can lead to other infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis, so it is important to get it checked as soon as possible, especially if you have a weak immune system or are an elderly person or child. Even if you are not at risk for other infections, getting tested can help stop the spread of the infection and rule out other causes of illness.
The RSV is about 80% – 90% accurate and requires no preparation for the visit. A person is infectious for about ten days after the onset of symptoms, so it is best to avoid work or school after receiving a positive result.
Strep Testing
A rapid strep throat test is the best way to receive immediate treatment for the bacterial infection and stop the spread of the illness. This test is usually done by swabbing the throat and/or nose and is 95% accurate in detecting the infection. It takes about 10 or 15 minutes to get the results, and antibiotics will be prescribed afterward. Once antibiotics are prescribed after a positive test result, patients often start feeling better within 24 hours and are less contagious, though it is still a good idea to stay home for another day or two after taking antibiotics.
Contact ARCpoint Labs of San Rafael to Schedule Your Rapid Testing Today
If you believe you or a loved one may have the flu, RSV, or strep throat, it’s important to get tested right away. Don’t let being sick get the best of you; stop the spread of the illness, and contact us at ARCpoint Labs of San Rafael to set up an appointment and get tested today!
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