When your little one checks all those boxes in the middle of flu season, it’s natural to wonder whether a flu test would help, and whether you should get one now or wait and see.
There’s no single right answer for every family, but understanding when testing tends to be useful can make the decision a little easier.
Keep reading for more info on whether or not a flu test for kids is the right call for your kiddo.
Why Flu Testing May Help
Flu symptoms often overlap with colds, COVID, RSV, strep throat, and other illnesses. From the outside, they can look almost identical.
Testing may help a provider better understand what’s causing your child’s symptoms, which can shape the advice and care they recommend.
No test replaces a thoughtful exam, though. Results are always considered alongside your child’s symptoms, history, and how they’re doing in the moment.
Symptoms That May Lead to Flu Testing
At KidsStreet, pediatric urgent care flu testing may be recommended when your child has symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Chills
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Symptoms that came on suddenly
- A known exposure to someone with the flu
That last point is pretty important, since the flu can spread easily in classrooms and daycares.
When to Visit KidsStreet for Flu Testing
Flu testing is one of the many ways KidsStreet provides urgent care for kids. A visit may make sense if your child has:
- Symptoms that look like the flu during flu season
- New symptoms after being around someone with the flu
- A fever that isn’t improving
- A cough along with body aches or fatigue
- Symptoms that are getting worse
- Questions about school, daycare, or activities
And if you’re concerned, that’s a good reason to have a provider take a look.
What to Expect During Your Flu Testing Visit
Walking in with a sick child can feel stressful, so here’s what a typical visit looks like:
- We’ll start by reviewing your child’s symptoms.
- A medical provider will examine your child.
- Flu testing will be done when appropriate.
- If symptoms overlap with other illnesses, your provider may recommend additional testing.
- You’ll leave with guidance on next steps and what to watch for at home.
Your provider will explain what the test involves before it happens, so you and your child know what to expect.
When to Go to the ER
Testing can wait, but some symptoms can’t. Go to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1 if your child has:
- Trouble breathing
- Blue lips or face
- Chest pain
- Severe dehydration
- Confusion or extreme sleepiness
- A seizure
- Symptoms that seem life-threatening
If you’re ever unsure whether something is an emergency, it’s always okay to choose the emergency room.
Visit KidsStreet for Flu Testing
Flu symptoms always seem to show up at the least convenient times, which is why we keep our doors open after many offices have closed.
KidsStreet is open late 7 days a week! Whether your child needs an exam, testing when appropriate, or guidance on what to do next, our team is ready to help. And if a nagging cough is part of the picture, we can take a look at that too.
Register online to save your spot in line! Online registration is not an appointment, but it can help reduce in-clinic wait times by adding you to the queue before you arrive.