So your doctor suspects you have Influenza. What can be done to confirm it?
The Influenza Rapid Test is done via a nasal swab. Thereafter, the swab would be mixed with a reagent and placed in a test kit. The entire test takes only 8 minutes to get the result. The test will show whether you have Influenza A, or Influenza B, or it could be a negative test.
The test can be done on children and adults. The nasal swab maybe uncomfortable but it will not be painful. You might experience some teary eyes or sneezing.
The test shows that Influenza infection is present. What can be done to treat it?
If your symptoms started within 48 hours, and the test is positive, the doctor can prescribe Tamiflu for you. Tamiflu is an anti-viral drug that is effective against Influenza A and B. Tamiflu is used to ease and shorten the symptoms of Influenza. You will also be less likely to develop complications of influenza, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and sinusitis.
If your symptoms started greater than 48 hours ago, your doctor may still prescribe Tamiflu if you’re very ill or are at higher risk of complications due to age or other health issues.
What is the treatment duration of Tamiflu?
For treatment of Influenza, Tamiflu is taken twice daily for 5 days.
For prevention of Influenza in a close contact, Tamiflu is taken once daily for 10 days.
What are the side effects of Tamiflu?
Tamiflu is generally considered a safe medication. Side effects are usually mild and tolerable. They include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach ache
- Diarrhoea
- Headache