Pharmacies can test & treat flu cases immediately this flu season, NC Department of Health says :: WRAL.com

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services on Tuesady issued standing orders allowing pharmacists to test and treat influenza.

According to the order, pharmacists will be able to evaluate people 5 years old and older who are showing signs or symptoms of influenza; conduct point-of-care influenza testing; and initiate treatment when clinically appropriate. 

Tests can miss flu infections in some cases. Anyone who has worsening or prolonged illness should seek medical care from a provider, regardless of flu test results. The standing orders also allow pharmacists to offer preventive treatment to high-risk individuals who have had a significant exposure to influenza within the past 48 hours.

“This action reduces barriers for people who are feeling sick or have been exposed to someone with the influenza virus,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “Being able to get tested and immediately treated at a pharmacy increases access for people who do not have a regular provider and will help make communities healthier during the respiratory virus season.”

In addition to treatment, NCDHHS individuals will receive education on self-care strategies, measures to limit the spread of influenza, and information about when to seek follow-up care from a medical provider. Pharmacists will also send information from the visit to the individual’s primary care provider to help keep care coordinated. If they do not have a doctor, pharmacists will help connect them to one.

Flu season typically starts in October with peaks between December and February.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people six months and older, with rare exceptions, to receive the vaccine. Officials say the vaccine is “trivalent” this season, meaning it protects against three strains of the flu virus.

NCDHHS said fees may apply for the evaluation and any medications provided. 

“While some private insurers may offer immediate coverage, we anticipate that coverage will expand over time,” NCDHHS said. “You should check with your pharmacy to ensure availability of pharmacists to test and treat the symptoms in the same visit. An appointment may be required.”


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