COVID-19 and the flu share many of the same symptoms, and there’s now an easy way to find out which virus you have. At-home rapid tests that detect both COVID-19 and the flu became available last year, but this is the first respiratory virus season for which they’re widely available online and in pharmacies.
The combination tests can detect COVID-19 and two types of flu viruses that affect adults and children differently: influenza A and influenza B.
Read on to find out more about the combo rapid tests and where to get them.
How do these combo tests work?
The combination COVID-19 and flu tests work similarly to the standard COVID-19 rapid tests you’re likely already familiar with.
You swipe each of your nostrils with a swab, dip the swap into a liquid substance to mix the two, and then pour the mixture into a sample well. After waiting 15 minutes, the test will show colored lines in the appropriate result window for each of the viruses: flu A, flu B, or COVID-19.
Where can I get the tests, and how much do they cost?
You can find the tests online or at your local pharmacy. There are eight different brands available, and each test can cost between $12 and $25. According to the New York Times, these combo tests may not be covered by insurance, but to be sure, contact your insurance company directly.
(And as far as the regular COVID-only tests, you can still order the free ones at COVIDtests.gov.)
When should I get tested?
Experts recommend testing when your symptoms begin. It can also be a good idea to get tested before holiday gatherings, especially if you’re visiting vulnerable people, like older adults or those who are immunocompromised. If the result is negative, they recommend you test again 48 hours later.
Who can take these combo tests?
The tests are approved for people 14 and older to test themselves and for children 2 and up to get tested by an adult.
For more information, talk to your health care provider.