Why get tested?
To determine whether or not you have the influenza A or B; to help your doctor make rapid treatment decisions; and to help determine whether or not the flu has come to your community

When to get tested?
When it is flu season and your doctor wants to determine whether your flu-like symptoms are due to influenza A or B, or to other causes; within 48 hours of the onset of your symptoms, to help determine treatment options

Sample required?
Depends on testing method being used; usually a nasopharyngeal (NP) swab, a nasal aspirate or nasal wash; under approved circumstances, a throat swab