ContinuEM clinician collecting a rapid flu swab from a patient in Lakewood

Rapid Flu Testing in Lakewood

Flu, COVID-19, and RSV can feel almost identical at the start. Our rapid Flu A & B test gives your doctor an answer in minutes, so you can leave with a treatment plan instead of guessing.

When to Get a Flu Test

Come in for testing when flu-like symptoms hit quickly, especially during flu season:

  • Fever or chills
  • Body aches
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Symptoms after close contact with someone who has influenza

Testing is most useful when the result will change what happens next — including whether antiviral treatment may be appropriate.

When Flu Symptoms Need the ER

Most flu can be treated at home or at urgent care. Go to the ER or call 911 for severe symptoms such as:

  • Trouble breathing or severe shortness of breath
  • Persistent chest pain or pressure
  • New confusion, fainting, or inability to stay awake
  • Severe dehydration or inability to keep fluids down
  • Blue or gray lips/skin or other signs of low oxygen
  • A rapidly worsening condition in someone at high risk for flu complications

Flu, COVID, or RSV?

Symptoms overlap. You do not need to figure it out before you arrive.

Concern Testing at ContinuEM
Influenza A & B Rapid flu test — results in minutes
COVID-19 Rapid and PCR options — about 30 minutes to 48 hours
RSV Testing may be recommended based on symptoms and availability — ask at your visit

Your clinician will recommend the test or combination of tests that makes sense for your symptoms, age, exposure, and timing. See COVID-19 Testing.

What to Expect

  1. We check your symptoms and vital signs. Fever, breathing, hydration, and medical history help us understand how sick you are.

  2. We swab for flu when indicated. The rapid Flu A & B test takes only a few moments to collect.

  3. Results come back in minutes. Your doctor reviews the result with you during the visit.

  4. You leave with a plan. That may include rest and fluids, symptom relief, or antiviral medication when clinically appropriate.

If your symptoms point to pneumonia or another complication, ContinuEM also has on-site X-ray and lab testing.

Why Test at ContinuEM

Rapid Flu A & B results in minutes

Doctor on site to interpret the result

Treatment plan in the same visit

On-site X-ray and lab testing if complications are suspected

Walk-ins welcome; open until 11 PM weekdays and 6 PM weekends

$99 upfront service fee; most insurance accepted

ContinuEM clinician reviewing a rapid flu test result with a patient

FAQ

Flu Testing FAQs

ContinuEM’s rapid Flu A & B test returns results in minutes. Your doctor reviews the result during the same visit and explains what it means for treatment.

Yes. The rapid flu test we offer checks for influenza A and B. Both can cause similar symptoms, so testing can be useful when the result will affect your care plan.

Sometimes. Flu and COVID-19 share many symptoms, and your clinician may recommend testing for both based on your symptoms, exposure, and timing. ContinuEM offers rapid and PCR COVID-19 testing.

Not in every situation. Your clinician considers symptoms, how long you have been sick, your risk factors, and testing results when deciding whether antiviral treatment is appropriate.

Yes. If fever, vomiting, or poor fluid intake has left you dehydrated, we can evaluate you and provide IV hydration when medically appropriate.

With insurance, ContinuEM charges a $99 upfront service fee and bills your plan for the remaining covered visit and testing charges. Self-pay options are available; ask us for current pricing before your test.

Yes. Walk-ins are welcome. We are open Monday–Friday 8 AM–11 PM and Saturday–Sunday 10 AM–6 PM, with last check-in at 10 PM weekdays and 5:30 PM weekends.

Related Care at ContinuEM

ContinuEM care team in Lakewood

COVERAGE

We’ve Got You Covered

Most in-network and out-of-network insurance accepted. A $99 upfront service fee applies to the urgent-care visit; additional laboratory charges and benefits vary by test. Self-pay options are available.

*Exclusions apply for insurance plans without urgent care benefits — see cash payment options.

  • Aetna
  • Alignment Healthcare
  • Anthem
  • Blue Shield of California
  • Brand New Day
  • CareMore Health
  • Cigna
  • Health Net
  • ILWU Local 13
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Medicare Advantage
  • Medicare
  • Optum
  • SCAN Health Plan
  • United Healthcare
Giancarlo DiMassa, MD

Medically reviewed by

Giancarlo DiMassa, MD

Written by

ContinuEM Editorial Team

Last updated

August 31, 2026

ContinuEM Urgent Care is dedicated to delivering exceptional, convenient healthcare to the Lakewood community and its surrounding areas. Our board-certified providers deliver expert care with compassion, transparency, and respect for your time.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding a medical condition. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

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