Is it flu or COVID? An at-home test can tell you

Getting tested for the flu just got a whole lot easier. While at-home testing for COVID has been readily available since 2020, at-home testing for the flu only became available in late 2024.

Now, you can buy a combination test that checks for COVID-19, flu A, and flu B at retail pharmacies and stores nationwide. Just like the at-home COVID test, the combo COVID-flu test requires a simple nasal swab and can give you results in 15 minutes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), about 8% of the U.S. population gets sick from flu each season. The CDC warns that the flu can cause mild to severe illness and even death. High-risk groups, such as young children, older adults, pregnant women and the immunocompromised, are especially at risk for severe illness and complications.

“This test can be a great step to stop the spread,” says Dr. Jyotu Sandhu, board-certified family medicine doctor with Sharp Rees-Stealy. “For people with high-risk friends and family members, this can quite literally be a lifesaver. You do not want to expose someone to COVID or the flu who cannot afford to be exposed.”

How to use at-home tests

Most at-home combo tests are intended for symptomatic individuals early in illness, often within five to six days of symptom onset. Adults should collect swabs for children, and these tests are not for children younger than 2.

“Being able to test at home when you’re symptomatic can save you a trip to the doctor's office,” says Dr. Sandhu. “Instead of coming in person and potentially spreading COVID or the flu to others, you can talk with your doctor in a virtual visit and even get prescriptions sent to your pharmacy.”

Additional ways to avoid respiratory illness

While at-home testing is a convenient way to stop the spread of respiratory illness, getting vaccinated is still the best defense against infection. In San Diego, the County Health and Human Services Agency provides a list of potential vaccination locations. If you’re a Sharp Rees-Stealy patient, you can sign in to Sharp or use the Sharp app to schedule a vaccination clinic appointment.

In addition, Dr. Sandhu recommends the following steps to stay healthy this season:

• Avoid poorly ventilated rooms.

• Practice social distancing.

• Wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose.

• Wash your hands frequently.

• Get a healthy amount of sleep every night.

• Maintain a healthy and vitamin-rich diet.

• Test yourself as soon as you see symptoms.

Learn more about COVID and the flu; get the latest health and wellness news, trends and patient stories from Sharp Health News; and subscribe to our weekly newsletter by clicking the "Sign up" link below.