Is it possible to have had the flu (swine or seasonal) and not know it?

by **sunshinyorange** on Fri Oct 23, 2009 7:27 pm

My husband, kids and I have all been sick (we were down for the count for several days) and I'm wondering if we've had the flu. We all still have lingering coughs, but are feeling considerably better. Is it possible to be tested for the flu after the fact to see if you've already had it?

I'm curious if we've had it because if we have, we won't need to get flu shots this year. :)

by **Truckinon770** on Fri Oct 23, 2009 7:35 pm

Yes, but why would you. If you've had the H1N1 flu, which you probably have, and are now getting better, then your body has made antibodies for that strain, and you're good to go.
Also watch The Doctors on Ch9 on Monday..... they talk about it.

by **WilliamD267** on Fri Oct 23, 2009 8:55 pm

It's a good question that I'm sure a lot of people are asking. Yes - you can be tested to see whether you have antibodies to pandemic H1N1 (aka swine flu) but you'll need to ask your doctor where to go or look on-line for diagnostic companies that perform the test by taking a small amount of blood.

Knowing whether you have had it will put your mind at ease.

Is it possible to have had the flu (swine or seasonal) and not know it?