Summary

• Influenza (the flu) is a viral infection that causes fever and chills, sneezing, coughing and a sore throat.
• The flu can be serious for some people, but if you are otherwise fit and healthy you usually don’t need to see a doctor.
• The best way to prevent influenza is to have a flu vaccination every year.
• Influenza can be diagnosed through a PCR test or a rapid antigen test (RAT).
• You can treat the symptoms of mild flu by resting and drinking plenty of water.

These key facts are from healthdirect.gov.au (accessed 28 Jan 2025). Visit the healthdirect website for more information about influenza.

Relevant Tests

If your doctor suspects you have Influenza, they may request one or more tests.

If you are diagnosed with influenza, some of these tests will be used to monitor and manage your condition.

Find information about specific tests:

• Influenza (flu) tests
• Blood culture
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Sputum culture
• Strep throat testing