Strep And Flu Testing (And More)

Mawri's Medical Clinics

Pediatric Medicine, Children Urgent Care, and Cosmetic & Laser Centers located in Flint, MI & Davison, MI

When your child can’t eat or rest comfortably due to infections like strep throat and the flu virus, Faisal Mawri, MD, can help. At Mawri’s Medical Clinics in Flint, Michigan, Dr. Mawri and his compassionate staff offer on-site diagnostic testing for strep and the flu, as well as comprehensive treatment options to resolve your child’s systems and help them feel better. Schedule a visit online or by calling the Flint pediatric office today to learn more about available strep and flu testing.

Strep and Flu Testing Q & A

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is the result of a Streptococcus bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the throat. This type of bacteria is highly contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact, sneezing, or coughing.

When your child develops strep throat, they may complain of sore throat pain and difficulties swallowing. You may see excessive redness and white patches that form at the back of the throat.

Other common symptoms of strep throat include:

Chills
Headache
Sudden high fever
Changes in appetite
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

If you suspect your child has strep throat based on their symptoms, seek immediate medical treatment to prevent the spread of the infection.

How is strep throat diagnosed?

Dr. Mawri can test your child for a strep throat infection during a sick visit using a simple swab test that collects cells from the back of your child’s throat. Results of this type of test are fast and the test itself takes only a few seconds to complete.

How can I tell if my child has the flu?

Symptoms of the flu are similar to those of the common cold, but tend to come on suddenly and be more severe. If your child has a fever, chills, fatigue, and body aches that aren’t getting better within three to four days they may have the influenza virus.

Dr. Mawri can perform a physical exam and review your child’s symptoms to determine if they have the flu. He may also request a nasal swab to test for antigens at the back of the nose that indicate the presence of the flu virus.

What treatment options are available for strep throat and the flu?

Dr. Mawri generally prescribes antibiotics to clear a strep infection. He may also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to ease throat pain. Once the antibiotics start working, your child should begin feeling better. They should remain home from school and other social events until Dr. Mawri determines your child is no longer contagious.

Because the flu is the result of a viral infection, the illness needs to run its course. Dr. Mawri may recommend over-the-counter medications and home remedies to relieve flu symptoms and help your child rest.

In more serious cases, such as in children with underlying medical issues, Dr. Mawri may prescribe antiviral medications to lessen the severity of flu symptoms. Schedule strep or flu testing today using the online booking feature or by calling the Flint office directly.