Quick answer: Flu season in Virginia usually runs from October through May, peaking between December and February. If you have sudden fever, chills, body aches, cough and fatigue, get tested early: antiviral medicine works best when started within 48 hours of symptoms, especially for people at higher risk. PACS Urgent Care in Alexandria offers walk-in rapid flu and COVID-19 tests 7 days a week. Go to the ER for trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion or severe dehydration.
The flu is more than a bad cold. It comes on fast and can lead to complications like pneumonia, especially in young children, older adults, pregnant people and people with chronic conditions.
New to PACS? Start with our complete guide to urgent care in Alexandria, VA.
Flu vs. cold: how to tell
| Symptom | Flu | Cold |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Sudden | Gradual |
| Fever | Common, often high | Rare or mild |
| Body aches and chills | Common, often severe | Mild |
| Fatigue | Strong, can last weeks | Mild |
| Stuffy nose and sneezing | Sometimes | Common |
COVID-19 and RSV can look very similar, so testing helps. Read cold, flu or COVID.
Why early testing matters
A rapid flu test gives results during your visit. If you test positive, an antiviral medicine like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) may shorten your illness and lower the risk of complications. It works best when started within 48 hours of your first symptoms. Higher-risk patients may benefit even after that window.
At PACS, each on-site rapid test (flu, COVID-19 antigen, RSV or strep) is $45 for self-pay patients, plus the visit.
Who should get checked quickly
- Children under 5, especially under 2
- Adults 65 and older
- Pregnant people
- People with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or a weak immune system
Children with flu and fever: see our fever treatment page. Infants and older adults with breathing symptoms may also need RSV testing.
Go to the ER for
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Confusion or being hard to wake
- Seizures
- Signs of severe dehydration
- Symptoms that improve, then come back with fever and worse cough
Feel better and protect others
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids
- Use fever reducers as directed
- Stay home until you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medicine
- Cover coughs and wash hands often
- Talk to your provider about the yearly flu vaccine
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get a flu test in Alexandria, VA?
PACS Urgent Care at 3481 N Beauregard St offers walk-in rapid flu testing, open 7 days from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Can I get tested for flu and COVID at the same visit?
Yes. Many patients are tested for both, since symptoms overlap.
Can urgent care prescribe Tamiflu?
Yes, when appropriate after diagnosis.
Get care today at PACS Urgent Care
PACS Urgent Care – Alexandria
3481 N Beauregard St, Alexandria, VA 22302
Open 7 days a week, 8 AM – 8 PM · Walk-ins welcome
Call (571) 656-8838 · Get directions · New patient guide
This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. If you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911.
