What is the Seasonal Flu?

Seasonal Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and sometimes can lead to death. In the United States, flu viruses are most common during the fall and winter – beginning in October and November, peaking between December and February, and ending as late as May.

What are common flu symptoms?

Common symptoms of the flu include:

• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Runny or Stuffy Nose
• Fever
• Body Aches
• Headache
• Chills and Fatigue

Some people may experience vomiting and diarrhea, and not all may have fever.

How is the flu diagnosed?

Many respiratory infections present with similar flu-like symptoms, making it very difficult to distinguish the flu from other viral or bacterial respiratory illnesses.

What is the Comprehensive Respiratory Panel?

The Comprehensive Respiratory Panel from BioReference® can assist your healthcare provider in accurately detecting and appropriately treating the infectious agent causing your symptoms. The detects 21 different viral and bacterial infections, and can assist your healthcare provider in accurately identifying the infectious agent causing your symptoms. An accurate diagnosis allows your healthcare provider to make informed decisions quickly regarding your care and treatment.

PLEASE NOTE:  BioReference®’s Comprehensive Respiratory Panel does not include testing for the detection of COVID-19. It does test for several other Coronaviridae (229E, HKU1, NL63 and OC43). Additionally, we offer a reflex panel which first tests the full Comprehensive Respiratory Panel, and if all negative, will reflex to COVID-19 testing. Please click here to read more about our COVID-19 response and test offerings.