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How long are you contagious with swine flu?
People with H1N1 flu virus infection should be considered potentially contagious one day before the onset of symptoms and as long as they are symptomatic, and possibly up to 7 days following the onset of illness. Children, especially younger children, might be contagious for longer periods.
How do you get tested for H1N1?
If your healthcare provider examines you and thinks you might have H1N1 swine flu, there are a few tests he might use to diagnose you. The most common is a rapid flu test. This consists of a nasal or throat swab that provides rapid results in the office in under 20 minutes.
What tests do they perform to identify swine flu?
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is becoming more common in many hospitals and labs. This test may be done while you’re in your doctor’s office or in the hospital. PCR testing is more sensitive than other tests and may be able to identify the influenza strain.
What should I do if exposed to swine flu?
Help! I’ve been exposed to H1N1 swine flu. What should I do?
- The CDC advises against the use of the anti-flu drugs Tamiflu and Relenza to keep exposed people from getting the flu.
- Instead, the CDC advises at-risk individuals to call their health care providers if they are exposed to flu.
- Don’t wait for a rapid flu test.
How is swine flu tested?
To test for swine flu, your doctor runs a swab — a bigger version of the ones in your bathroom — up the inside of your nose around the back of your throat. But the test isn’t as common or widespread as those for regular flu.
Does H1N1 show up on flu test?
Your doctor will conduct a physical exam, look for signs and symptoms of influenza, including H1N1 flu (swine flu), and possibly order a test that detects influenza viruses such as H1N1.
Which test is required for swine flu?
To test for swine flu a nose or throat swab is taken. Within 15 minutes, the laboratory may tell if influenza type A or B is present. The specimen of the infected material from the patient’s throat or nose is collected within the first 4 to 5 days of illness.