A cough, fever or runny nose can signal several different respiratory illnesses, making it difficult to know exactly what's causing those familiar symptoms. With a new four-in-one rapid test available at McCook's Pharmacy, families can get a clearer picture without leaving home.
The iHealth Flu A&B/COVID-19/RSV Rapid Test checks for four viruses — COVID-19, influenza A, influenza B and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) — using a single nasal swab. The over-the-counter test requires no prescription and can be used by individuals ages 14 and older to test themselves. Adults can administer the test to children as young as 6 months old, and results are available in just 15 minutes.
Identifying the virus
Although COVID-19, influenza and RSV share many symptoms, the illnesses can affect people differently. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, testing can help individuals make informed decisions about medical treatment and precautions to prevent spreading infection.
For example, prescription antiviral medications are available to treat influenza and COVID-19. These treatments work best when started early, making prompt testing and consultation with a health care provider especially important for those at higher risk, including older adults, young children and those with certain underlying health conditions.
Understanding RSV
RSV is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover within a week or two, but the infection can become serious in certain populations.
According to the CDC, RSV was the leading cause of hospitalization among infants in the United States before the introduction of RSV immunizations. The virus can cause bronchiolitis, an inflammation of the small airways in the lungs, and pneumonia.
In very young infants, symptoms may include irritability, decreased activity, difficulty feeding or breathing problems, sometimes without a fever.
Older adults, particularly those with chronic heart or lung disease or weakened immune systems, also face an increased risk of severe RSV infection.
Unlike influenza and COVID-19, RSV does not have an antiviral medication routinely recommended for treatment. Most cases are managed with supportive care, including rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms.
Testing at home
While rapid tests offer convenience, understanding their limitations is important.
The iHealth four-in-one test is intended for people experiencing respiratory symptoms within the first six days of illness. The manufacturer's instructions call for testing at least twice over three days, with a minimum of 48 hours between tests.
A negative result does not necessarily mean someone is free of infection. Rapid antigen tests may miss a virus, particularly when the amount present in the sample is too low to detect. A health care provider may recommend additional testing.
Anyone experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms should contact a medical professional, regardless of the test result. Difficulty breathing, chest pain or signs of severe dehydration require immediate medical attention.
The CDC also recommends staying home and away from others when experiencing respiratory illness symptoms until symptoms are improving overall and the individual has been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication. Additional precautions are recommended for the following five days.
McCook's Pharmacy is committed to providing personalized service and convenient access to health care products for the Statesboro community. Whether customers have questions about at-home testing, over-the-counter medications, prescriptions or preventive care, the pharmacy's knowledgeable staff is available to help.
Stop by today to learn more about the four-in-one rapid test and other products to help keep your family healthy all season long.