Definition
The flu rapid test is used for rapid diagnosis in case of suspected influenza infection. It is also known as an influenza test or Flu-Quicktest. According to the manufacturer, the test is intended to replace a visit to the doctor, but doctors take a very critical view of this, as the layperson can hardly distinguish between a cold, flu-like infections and the actual flu. A positive test result must be reported.
Indication for the flu rapid test – When is it useful?
The flu rapid test facilitates the diagnosis of an influenza infection. There are now drugs available that prevent the flu pathogens from multiplying and can thus reduce the symptoms and duration of the illness. Since these drugs are only useful when influenza is actually present and not a cold, their use should depend on an accurate diagnosis.
In addition, in order to have an effect, they must be taken no later than 3 days after infection. This makes it necessary to confirm the diagnosis quickly. The flu rapid test is therefore a good idea if treatment with flu drugs (more precisely: neuraminidase inhibitors) is planned.
This is particularly important since the flu drug Oseltamivir® can cause severe neurological side effects. During an influenza epidemic, however, a test to detect it is not necessarily required if the patient exhibits the classic symptoms of influenza. Outside the flu season, the test is useful.
Implementation of the flu rapid test
The principle of the rapid influenza test is based on the detection of the influenza antigens A and B.
- A sterile cotton swab is inserted deep into the nostril or the nasopharynx (observe manufacturer’s instructions!) and rotated so that secretion is absorbed with the pathogens.
- The moistened cotton swab is swivelled in the liquid of the sample tube so that the pathogens are released from the absorbent cotton.
- This test liquid is dropped onto a test cassette on which an indicator is bound with the corresponding antibody. The antigens from the nasal secretion bind to the antibodies on the indicator paper.
- This is followed by an envelope if flu viruses are present, so that the result can be read at a glance.
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