Aelwydd Posted January 22, 2013 Share Posted January 22, 2013 As an FYI to any members here who may be suffering from flu symptoms, please be aware there is a highly variable rate of "false negative" results. I shared this on another thread several days ago, but when I had the flu back in 2010, I was tested 3 times over the course of 7 days of steadily worsening symptoms. The first two tests came back negative, and the third confirmed Influenza, Type B. By this time, my symptoms were so severe, I was in the hospital. Fast forward three years, and there is a ferocious virus going around at work that is making tons of people very sick. Last Tuesday, I started feeling dizzy/ nauseated and weak. I began running a low fever a few days later. I went to a clinic to be tested...and the result was negative. Well, I didn't trust that very much, and yesterday, after having my symptoms worsen over the weekend, I got tested again by my doctor. And...it came back positive, for flu, Type B! That's five tests taken, three with a false "negative" result, when I was actually positive for the flu. Which is a lousy score, IMO. So, it's not just the flu shot that has a spotty record for accuracy--it's the diagnostic tools as well. If you are having several flu type symptoms, and they have gotten worse, and you've had a negative flu test result, please be aware you may still have the flu. Even if you've had a flu shot; I had the flu shot during the 2009 - 2010 flu season, and it clearly did not protect me then. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WiseOwlKnits Posted January 22, 2013 Share Posted January 22, 2013 Aww, so sorry that you're sick, Bek! We've all got some junk here too, although it's not the flu. I hope you feel better soon!! And keep away from Jackson! Lily is always asking about him and if he still has his cast. :rofl: (Incidentally, we're planning a trip to your parts this spring if you're up for a get together. And we have more time to plan this time so we have no excuses, LOL!) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
catz Posted January 22, 2013 Share Posted January 22, 2013 Not surprised at all. Our peds don't even bother with testing for the flu unless a child his high risk for complications or extremely ill. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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