This year’s recent outbreak of H1N1 (Swine) flu has highlighted the need for tests that can quickly detect the presence of Influenza A. So how effective are the tests in picking up the presence of Influenza A?

The CDC evaluated multiple rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs) and results showed RIDTs were capable of detecting H1N1 Influenza A  when the patient had a high viral load. Sensitivity to the RIDTs decreased however when viral levels were decreased.

What does this mean to you? A negative RIDT does not prove that you don’t have the H1N1 viral infection. If a patient exhibits symptoms especially if it’s not yet the flu season, s/he should be treated as if s/he had H1N1. This means that generally a course of anti-viral medication will be ordered and you will be asked to stay out of work or school for 7 days or 24 hours after your fever has ended – whichever is longer.

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