Flu & COVID Testing and Respiratory Illness Care

Fever, cough, sore throat and body aches may be a common cold, influenza, COVID-19, bronchitis or a bacterial infection, and each is managed differently. At Clínica Hispana Corazón y Vida in Pasadena we run the rapid tests and tell you the same day what you have and what to take, in Spanish and without an appointment.

What does respiratory care include?

• Rapid influenza A and B test.
• Rapid COVID-19 test.
• Strep test when the sore throat suggests it.
• Symptom evaluation, lung auscultation and oxygen measurement.
• Treatment of colds, cough, bronchitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis and mild asthma flare-ups.
• Antivirals when indicated and antibiotics only when the cause is bacterial.
• A medical note for work or school if you need it.

When is the rapid test useful?

Influenza is best detected in the first three or four days of symptoms, and antivirals work mainly if started within the first 48 hours. COVID-19 is detected from the onset of symptoms; in people at risk, antiviral treatment starts within the first five days. That is why it pays to come early rather than wait and see.

Do I need an antibiotic?

Most respiratory illnesses are viral and do not improve with antibiotics. They are indicated for confirmed strep, bacterial sinusitis, pneumonia or bronchitis that becomes complicated. Taking antibiotics unnecessarily does not shorten a cold and creates resistance.

When should I go to the emergency room?

Trouble breathing, chest pain, bluish lips, confusion, fever that does not come down with medication for more than three days, or fever in babies under three months. In those cases do not wait for the clinic.

What is the visit like?

1. Temperature, oxygen and vital signs.
2. Rapid flu, COVID or strep test according to symptoms.
3. Examination of throat, ears and lungs.
4. Diagnosis, prescription and care and isolation instructions when they apply.

If you come with fever or cough, tell the front desk so you are given a mask.

How do I care for myself at home?

Rest, drink fluids, use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever as directed, and avoid cigarette smoke. With influenza or COVID, stay home until the fever is gone without medication for 24 hours and symptoms improve, and wear a mask around vulnerable people in the following days.

How much does it cost?

The visit and each test have a direct price, no insurance, in cash or by card. Confirm on WhatsApp at (346) 646-2974.

Where and when?

Walk in at 918 W Southmore Ave, Suite 180, Pasadena, TX 77502, every day from 9 AM to 9 PM. We also give the flu vaccine in season.