Flu Testing
Available at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations
Rapid Flu Testing with Immediate Results
Flu testing helps determine if your symptoms are caused by influenza A or B, allowing for targeted treatment with antiviral medications when appropriate. We provide rapid flu testing with results available quickly, enabling our medical providers to create an effective treatment plan during your visit. Walk-ins welcome at both Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations, open daily 8am-8pm.
When to Get Tested for Flu
- Sudden onset of fever and chills
- Severe body aches and muscle pain
- Persistent dry cough
- Extreme fatigue or weakness
- Headache and sinus pressure
- Sore throat
- Symptoms appearing during flu season (October-May)
- Exposure to confirmed flu cases
- High-risk individuals (elderly, pregnant, chronic conditions)
- Symptoms within 48 hours (optimal window for antiviral treatment)
How We Test for Influenza
Our medical providers use rapid influenza diagnostic tests that detect both influenza A and B strains. The test involves a simple nasal swab, with results available quickly. Early detection is crucial because antiviral medications like Tamiflu work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. Our physician-led approach ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations.
What to Expect During Your Flu Test Visit
Diagnostic Capabilities
Recovery Timeline & Prevention
Most flu symptoms improve within 3-7 days with appropriate treatment, though fatigue may persist for 1-2 weeks. Antiviral medications can reduce symptom duration by 1-2 days when started early. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter symptom relief are important. Return if you develop difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent high fever, or worsening symptoms. Annual flu vaccination is the best prevention strategy. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. For urgent but non-emergency conditions, visit True Compassion Urgent Care at either our Palm Beach Gardens or Stuart location. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Available at Both Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
Rapid influenza diagnostic tests are highly specific, meaning positive results are very reliable. According to CDC data, these tests correctly identify influenza in 50-70% of infected patients. False negatives can occur, so our medical providers consider your symptoms, exposure history, and physical examination findings when making treatment decisions, not just test results alone.
No appointment is necessary. We welcome walk-ins daily from 8am to 8pm at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations. Most patients are seen quickly, though wait times may vary based on patient volume.
The nasal swab collection takes less than a minute, and results are available quickly. Your entire visit, including examination and treatment planning, typically takes under an hour depending on your specific needs.
If you test positive for influenza and meet clinical criteria, our medical providers can prescribe antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu). These medications work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset and can reduce symptom duration and severity. Your prescription will be sent electronically to your preferred pharmacy.
Yes, testing can still be valuable even after 48 hours. While antiviral medications are most effective early, knowing your diagnosis helps with treatment planning, understanding your recovery timeline, and preventing spread to others. Our providers will recommend the best approach based on your symptom duration and severity.
Flu and COVID-19 share many symptoms including fever, cough, fatigue, and body aches. We can test for both conditions to determine the cause of your illness. This is important because treatment approaches differ, and accurate diagnosis helps with isolation recommendations and treatment planning.
Please bring your photo ID, insurance card (if applicable), and a list of current medications. This information helps us provide safe, effective care and identify any potential drug interactions with antiviral medications.
Visit the emergency room if you experience severe difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion or inability to stay awake, severe persistent dizziness, seizures, severe muscle pain, or severe dehydration. For typical flu symptoms, urgent care is the appropriate choice.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition.
In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Do not rely on this information for emergency medical treatment.
No physician-patient relationship is created by viewing this content. This information does not replace in-person evaluation and treatment by a licensed medical professional.
Ready to Get Care?
Walk-ins welcome at both locations. Open daily 8am-8pm.