(RxWiki News) Authored by: Michelle Barney, Pharm D. 

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.