What to know
- This page provides guidance for clinicians on testing and treatment of influenza when SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses are co-circulating. Additional guidance is provided on when to test for influenza, how to interpret influenza testing results, what influenza laboratory tests are available, and influenza specimen collection. Guidance and resources for laboratory directors and staff are also available on this page.
Guidance for Clinicians
Testing and treatment of influenza when SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses are co-circulating
Clinical guidance for specimen collection, testing and treatment at discharge for COVID-19 and flu.
For clinical decision making for COVID/flu when patients with ARI require hospitalization
Clinical Guidance for Outpatients With Acute Respiratory Illness at Higher Risk of Severe COVID-19
Considerations for nursing home residents when SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses are co-circulating.
When to test for influenza
Information for clinicians on influenza virus testing, regardless of influenza vaccination history.
Flowchart: influenza virus testing for outbreaks in institutional or other closed settings.
How to interpret influenza testing results
Algorithm for interpretation of testing results and clinical decision-making when influenza viruses...
This algorithm assists in the interpretation of flu testing results and clinical decision-making.
What influenza virus tests are available
Algorithm for clinical decision-making when influenza viruses are circulating in the community.
FDA-cleared Nucleic Acid Detection Based Tests for Influenza Viruses.
Guidance on using RT-PCR and other molecular assays for diagnosing influenza virus infection.
Rapid diagnostic tests for influenza can help in the diagnosis and management of patients who presen...
Information for laboratory directors and staff
Find and reference diagnostic test information for RT-PCR test kits - CDC
Specimen collection
This document is a reference guide for healthcare workers to use when collecting influenza specimens.