As concerns about flu season amid the COVID-19 pandemic rise, one medical system in Sacramento County is already preparing for both viruses. UC Davis is set to roll out a new rapid test in November that specifically tests for the flu and the novel coronavirus. “In anticipation of influenza season, we’re having tests that are going to be rolled out very soon that are point of care tests that can be done in the emergency department or in doctors’ offices or clinics that you can do the swab and do the test right there,” said Dr. Dean Blumberg. Blumberg, who is UC Davis Medical Center’s chief of pediatric infectious diseases, said people should take the dual threat of both viruses seriously. “If you get influenza on top of having COVID-19, then your risk of death is twice as high as just having COVID,” he said. “So, it’s something you definitely don’t want to have both of those at once.”There is not an exact date in November for when the new rapid tests will be available. Check back with KCRA on the latest information about who can get the tests and how to get one.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —
As concerns about flu season amid the COVID-19 pandemic rise, one medical system in Sacramento County is already preparing for both viruses.
UC Davis is set to roll out a new rapid test in November that specifically tests for the flu and the novel coronavirus.
“In anticipation of influenza season, we’re having tests that are going to be rolled out very soon that are point of care tests that can be done in the emergency department or in doctors’ offices or clinics that you can do the swab and do the test right there,” said Dr. Dean Blumberg.
Blumberg, who is UC Davis Medical Center’s chief of pediatric infectious diseases, said people should take the dual threat of both viruses seriously.
“If you get influenza on top of having COVID-19, then your risk of death is twice as high as just having COVID,” he said. “So, it’s something you definitely don’t want to have both of those at once.”
There is not an exact date in November for when the new rapid tests will be available. Check back with KCRA on the latest information about who can get the tests and how to get one.