Stay Healthy This Season with UPOH Lab Testing

January 30, 2025

As flu season continues, it is the perfect time to take steps to protect your health. At United Providers of Health (UPOH), we’re committed to keeping our community safe with reliable testing for flu, RSV, and COVID-19. Our COLA and CLIA-certified lab provides accurate results, helping you stay informed and take action.

Why Flu Testing Matters

Flu season typically begins in October and lasts until March, with peak activity between December and February. The flu can range from mild to severe and may lead to serious complications, particularly for older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

Getting tested early is crucial. At UPOH Lab, we offer fast and accurate flu tests to help determine whether your symptoms are caused by the flu or another illness. A clear diagnosis allows healthcare providers to recommend the best treatment, whether it’s rest, fluids, or antiviral medications.

The Benefits of Early Flu Testing

If you have symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, or cough, early testing offers several advantages:

  • Accurate Diagnosis: Flu symptoms can resemble other respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and RSV. Testing helps pinpoint the exact cause so you can receive the appropriate care.
  • Timely Treatment: Antiviral medications are most effective when taken within 48 hours of symptom onset, reducing the duration and severity of illness.
  • Preventing the Spread: Knowing if you have the flu allows you to take necessary precautions, such as staying home and avoiding close contact with others.

Comprehensive Respiratory Testing: Flu, RSV, and COVID-19

UPOH Lab also provides testing for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and COVID-19, both of which can cause serious respiratory complications.

RSV Testing

RSV is a common virus that can lead to severe respiratory issues, especially in infants, older adults, and individuals with chronic conditions. Symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and fever can mimic other respiratory infections. Testing ensures an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.

COVID-19 Testing

COVID-19 continues to circulate, and its symptoms often overlap with those of the flu. If you experience fever, shortness of breath, cough, or fatigue, testing helps ensure you receive the correct treatment. UPOH Lab remains committed to providing COVID-19 testing to support community health.

Your Health, Our Priority

Our COLA and CLIA-certified lab adheres to the highest standards to deliver accurate results. Our comprehensive respiratory testing for flu, RSV, and COVID-19 enables quick identification of illnesses, faster recovery, and reduced transmission. Early testing is especially important for high-risk individuals, and we’re here to provide the support you need.

Hosted Flu Clinics for Events

UPOH also offers hosted flu clinics for organizations, businesses, and community events. If you’re interested in setting up a flu clinic at your location, contact us to learn more about how we can bring flu prevention directly to your group.

Preventing Flu and RSV: Get Vaccinated at Bethel Pharmacy

While testing is essential, prevention is just as important. UPOH Lab focuses on testing, while Bethel Pharmacy offers flu and RSV vaccines to help protect you and your loved ones.

If your test results are negative, visit Bethel Pharmacy to get your flu or RSV vaccine and lower your risk of infection throughout the season. Vaccinations help reduce symptom severity and prevent the spread of these viruses in the community.

When Should You Get Tested?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, schedule a flu, RSV, or COVID-19 test as soon as possible:

  • Fever or chills
  • Sore throat
  • Persistent cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue or body aches
  • Runny or stuffy nose

Early testing allows for faster recovery, prevents complications, and helps protect those around you at home, work, and school.

Schedule Your Flu, RSV, or COVID-19 Test Today

UPOH Lab is dedicated to providing fast, reliable, and accurate testing to help you take charge of your health this flu season. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen—schedule your test today and protect yourself and those around you.

For flu and RSV vaccines, visit Bethel Pharmacy—your trusted partner in staying healthy this season.

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). People at increased risk for flu complications. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.-b). Similarities and differences between flu and covid-19. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/flu-vs-covid19.html

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (n.d.). Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/respiratory-syncytial-virus/symptoms-causes/syc-20353098

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