When COVID-19 first came out, it was pretty scary. Areas had orders for sheltering in place and quarantining as the pandemic made its way around the globe. Then variants came onto the scene, and we were introduced to new terms like Delta and Omicron. Then entered Flurona. 

Although this isn’t a variant of COVID, it is one of the scarier diagnoses. Having Flurona means that an individual has both the flu and coronavirus at the same time. So although you may be well-stocked on MyZone Test Kits, you may be wondering: Can rapid tests detect Flurona? Here’s what you need to know.

What is Flurona? Taking a Deeper Dive

Having Flurona means that you’ve been infected with both the flu and COVID-19 viruses at the same time. The first known case of Flurona was detected in Israel, and then the conversation began. The case was discovered in an unvaccinated, pregnant woman who recovered without issue. However, that may not be the case with everyone who contracts both viruses simultaneously, especially if they are pregnant.

What Happens if Someone Has Both Viruses at the Same Time?

What happens if someone has COVID and the flu at the same time depends on the person and their health history. Although having both viruses simultaneously is uncommon, concurrent infections are becoming more prevalent.

Pandemic requirements — quarantining, social distancing, wearing masks, and sanitizing — not only lessened the presence of COVID-19 but also kept most folks from getting the flu for a year. However, a year of a minimal amount of viral cases is usually followed by a period of that particular virus becoming more prevalent.

As people get more comfortable and lessen their protective measures, contracting the flu is more likely this season. That fact, coupled with the lingering presence of COVID, means that we need to be aware of both viruses. COVID-19 does tend to be the more potent virus, which means that it will take over and become the predominant contamination within the body. So, although experts don’t think that hospitalizations and mortality rates will increase due to Flurona, it’s a bit too early to tell.

Will a Rapid Test Detect Flurona?

Although rapid tests pinpoint COVID, they don’t detect the flu. So, if you do experience COVID symptoms and have negative test results, you could have the flu or something as simple as the common cold.

Because coronavirus is more of a concern and health threat than the flu, testing is essential. In addition, doctors suggest that you get both a COVID-19 vaccine and your annual flu shot to stay protected. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms and don’t have COVID, be sure to talk to your doctor about the next steps in getting back to total health. Only purchase rapid tests approved by the government and seek for PCR screening as well.