Flu and RSV Testing in Buffalo, NY
Have your Child Tested for the Flu and RSV at Delaware Pediatrics
Influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are extremely common conditions pediatricians often treat during cold winter. Both of these illnesses can be treated easily, though if left untreated, they will likely result in severe complications.
The board-certified pediatricians at Delaware Pediatrics provide comprehensive testing and treatment for the flu and RSV. To learn more about the flu, RSV, and the testing process, call our clinic in Buffalo at (716) 884-0230 to schedule your appointment today.
What is RSV?
Everyone is fairly familiar with the influenza virus, but few individuals can identify early symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus. This particular illness is extremely common in young children, though it can affect persons of all ages.
RSV is associated with symptoms similar to a common cold, which include:
- Coughing
- A low-grade fever
- Increased irritability
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty breathing (will usually appear as wheezing or abnormally fast breaths)
RSV can spread from person to person through vapors that are passed during a sneeze or cough.
When To Seek Treatment
Some mild cases of influenza or RSV may resolve themselves if the individual receives enough rest to fully recuperate. However, if you notice any serious symptoms such as breathing difficulties or a high fever, you should seek medical attention immediately. It is often better to be safe than sorry even when dealing with a mild case, as early treatment will be able to offer fast relief from painful symptoms.
Diagnosing the Flu and RSV
To officially determine whether or not your child has influenza or RSV, a variety of tests may need to be performed. This is primarily to do with the fact that there are multiple different strains of influenza that a child may contract. Influenza A and influenza B are among the most common, but it is also possible to test for other subforms. Several of these tests are also able to identify respiratory syncytial virus within the same sample provided by the patient.
Results are typically available within a few days after the sample has been collected and sent to the lab for testing. Rapid test options will of course have a much faster turnaround time that should be available within just a few hours. If you have completed flu and RSV testing with Delaware Pediatrics but have not yet received your results after several days, please contact our local office by calling (716) 884-0230 to inquire about your test results.
Treating The Flu and RSV
The treatment options for flu and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) may vary depending on the severity of the illness and your child’s medical history. For the flu, antiviral medications shorten the duration and severity of symptoms. These medications work by inhibiting the virus from replicating and spreading throughout the body.
Schedule an Appointment for FLU and RSV Testing at Delaware Pediatrics
If your child is experiencing symptoms of the flu or RSV, it is important that you schedule an appointment for testing ASAP. Please contact our pediatrics clinic in Buffalo at (716) 884-0230 and schedule an appointment today!