Flu, COVID, RSV or Strep? Rapid PCR Testing in Monsey, NY

Fever, cough, body aches or a sore throat can leave you wondering: Is it the flu, COVID-19, RSV, a cold or strep throat?

These infections often cause overlapping symptoms, making it difficult to know what you have without an evaluation. At Rockland Family Medical Care in Monsey, NY, we offer on-site BIOFIRE® SPOTFIRE® PCR testing to help identify the cause of your illness and guide treatment.

Walk-ins are welcome, and we are accepting new patients over age 18. We accept insurance and offer self-pay options.

Rapid PCR Testing: Answers in Under 20 Minutes

When you feel sick, waiting days for laboratory results can be frustrating. Our BIOFIRE SPOTFIRE system performs PCR-based molecular testing right in our office, with test processing in approximately 15 minutes.

Depending on your symptoms and the panel selected, our testing can help identify:

Influenza A and B: The viruses responsible for seasonal flu.
COVID-19: Caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
RSV: A respiratory virus that can be particularly concerning for older adults and people with certain chronic conditions.
Rhinovirus: A common cause of colds.
Group A strep: The bacteria that cause strep throat.

Your provider chooses the appropriate testing and sample based on your symptoms. Strep testing requires a throat sample; it is not automatically included in a nasal respiratory test. www.biomerieux.com

Test processing typically takes approximately 15 minutes. Sample collection, preparation, office volume and your medical evaluation affect when results are available and the total length of your visit.

Is It the Flu, COVID or Just a Cold?

Symptoms alone do not always provide a clear answer. Flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory infections can cause similar combinations of cough, congestion, fever, fatigue and sore throat.

A painful throat can also have several causes. Identifying whether symptoms are related to strep or a viral illness can help your provider determine whether antibiotics or other treatment may be appropriate.

At Rockland Family Medical Care, we combine your test results with your symptoms, medical history and examination. Testing helps inform the diagnosis, but a negative result does not rule out every possible infection or cause of illness.

Why Getting Evaluated Early Matters

A prompt evaluation can be especially helpful when treatment is time-sensitive.

Flu treatment: Antiviral medications work best when started within the first 48 hours of symptoms. Patients with severe illness or a higher risk of complications may still benefit when treatment begins later. www.cdc.gov

COVID-19 treatment: People at higher risk of severe illness may qualify for antiviral medication. Depending on the treatment, it must begin within five to seven days after symptoms start. www.cdc.gov

Strep throat treatment: A confirmed strep infection may require antibiotics. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections such as flu, COVID-19, RSV or rhinovirus.

Our goal is to help you understand your illness, choose appropriate treatment and know what symptoms to watch for as you recover.

When to Come In for a Sick Visit

Visit our Monsey office if you develop:

Fever, chills or body aches.
A new or worsening cough.
A painful sore throat or discomfort with swallowing.
Respiratory symptoms after a known exposure.
Symptoms that worsen or return after you initially improve.

Contact us promptly if you are an older adult, pregnant, immunocompromised or living with conditions such as asthma, COPD, diabetes or heart disease.

Severe trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, new confusion or difficulty staying awake requires emergency care. Call 911 for severe symptoms.

Walk-In Sick Visits in Monsey—New Patients Welcome

You do not need to be an established patient to seek care at Rockland Family Medical Care.

We welcome walk-ins and new patients over age 18 from Monsey, Spring Valley and surrounding Rockland County communities. Whether you are using insurance or paying out of pocket, our office can explain your payment options.

Insurance coverage and patient responsibility vary by plan and the services provided. Contact us with questions about coverage or self-pay pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BIOFIRE SPOTFIRE a PCR test?

Yes. BIOFIRE SPOTFIRE uses PCR-based molecular testing to detect specific viruses and bacteria included in the selected panel.

Can I get tested for flu, COVID, RSV and strep during one visit?

Yes, when clinically appropriate. Your provider determines which testing is needed. More than one sample may be necessary because respiratory and strep testing use different sample types.

Will my entire visit take less than 20 minutes?

The test typically processes in approximately 15 minutes. Your total visit also includes check-in, evaluation, sample collection and discussion of your results and treatment.

Do you accept walk-ins and new patients?

Yes. Walk-ins are welcome, and we are accepting new patients over age 18. You can also call or request an appointment online.

Can I use insurance or pay out of pocket?

Yes. We accept insurance and offer self-pay options. Contact our office for details about your plan or current self-pay pricing.

Get Answers and a Treatment Plan at Rockland Family Medical Care

If you are searching for flu testing, COVID testing, RSV testing or strep throat testing in Monsey, our team is here to help. On-site PCR testing allows us to bring timely results and personalized medical care together in one office visit.

Walk in, call 845-352-9292 or request an appointment online.

Rockland Family Medical Care
6 Melnick Drive, Suite 101
Monsey, NY 10952