According to the World Health Organization, influenza, also known as the flu, is a respiratory infection that attacks the lungs, bronchi tubes, nose and throat. The symptoms are characterized by chest discomfort, headache, high fever, muscle aches, sore throat, cough and chills. Comprehensive influenza tests are designed to determine whether a person suffers from a minor or severe case of the condition. For example, type A influenza is associated with the swine flu and has severe symptoms, while types B and C display more mild flu signs. Cultures can look for infection by using blood, urine and tissue samples, and skin scrapings. Ultimately, diagnostic testing by a physician determines the correct diagnosis and course of treatment.
Step 1
Buy a home test. These can be brought over-the-counter to test for influenza types A and B. A nasal discharge sample is taken from the nose and placed into a tube that has a solution. The specimen mixes with the solution to determine its outcome. The test strip is positive if it depicts a blue and reddish line; a negative test shows only a blue line. The test does not determine if the results indicate type A or type B. A similar test, called rapid antigen detection, is performed in the doctor's office. In both tests, results are available within 15 to 30 minutes.
Step 2
Inquire about a swab test if you suspect an influenza infection. During a nasal swab test for influenza, a doctor inserts nasal swab into the nose and sinus cavity to retrieve a fluid sample. MayoClinic.com reports that doctors generally prefer plastic or aluminum swabs because of their decreased risk of loose tips and broken shafts. Afterwards, the swabs are placed in a solution for analysis. Results are immediate but do not distinguish between the different flu types.
Step 3
Ask your doctor to conduct an in-depth culture test. According to MedlinePlus, the test can determine whether you have type B or C influenza. This test is usually conducted on individuals with severe symptoms. During the test, a swab sample is collected and sent to a testing facility to see if an infection grows. Depending on the testing facility, results can take 2 to 10 days for an accurate assessment.
Things You'll Need
- Home testing kit
