Between 2013 and 2022, the percentage of emergency department visits resulting in influenza test orders increased significantly from 2.5% to 10.9%, according to a December CDC report.

Three key findings:

1. A significant increase in flu test orders occurred between 2016-2018 and 2021-2022.

2. Patients up to 5 years old received the highest percentage of flu tests. Flu test orders in this group rose from 8.6% of ED visits in 2013 to 23.1% in 2022. All other age groups also showed increases.

3. The most common reasons for flu testing were fever and cough in both 2013 and 2022. However, symptoms such as nausea, shortness of breath and psychological concerns became more prevalent over time.