What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, congestion, sneezing, sore throat, or a mild cough and want to know if rhinovirus (a common cold virus) is the cause. It's especially useful if you need to rule out other respiratory infections, want confirmation before returning to work or school, or your symptoms are lingering longer than expected. Knowing the exact cause can help you manage symptoms more effectively and avoid unnecessary antibiotics.

How should I prepare for this test?

How can I naturally support recovery from a rhinovirus infection? Getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids like water and warm tea, and using a humidifier can help ease congestion and soothe your throat. Simple remedies like saline nasal rinses, honey for a sore throat, and zinc lozenges may shorten symptom duration for some people. Washing your hands often and avoiding close contact with others can also help prevent spreading the virus while you recover.

What's included in this test?

This test uses real-time PCR technology, a highly sensitive method that detects the genetic material (RNA) of rhinovirus directly from a sample, which is why it's more accurate than relying on symptoms alone. Because rhinovirus is one of the most common causes of upper respiratory infections, a targeted test like this helps confirm the source of your symptoms quickly and precisely.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your online account along with an explanation of what a positive or negative result means. If positive, next steps are usually simple: rest, stay hydrated, and manage symptoms at home since rhinovirus infections typically resolve on their own within a week or two; seek medical care if you develop trouble breathing, high fever, or symptoms that worsen significantly. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and if you test again in the future you'll be able to track results over time using the trends feature.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically available within about 7 days after your sample is processed at the lab. You'll receive a notification as soon as your results are ready to view securely in your online account. Turnaround can occasionally vary slightly depending on lab volume, but you'll always be able to check your account for the most current status.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone with persistent cold-like symptoms who wants a clear answer instead of guessing should consider this test. It's also helpful for people who are immunocompromised, work in close contact with vulnerable populations, or need documentation of a respiratory illness for work, school, or travel. If your symptoms don't match a typical cold or you want to rule out other respiratory viruses, this test can provide useful clarity.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms that suggest you might benefit from this test include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, mild cough, and general fatigue. These symptoms typically come on gradually and are milder than flu-like illnesses, but if they persist beyond 10 days or worsen, testing can help clarify the cause. Mild low-grade fever can sometimes occur as well, though high fever is less typical of rhinovirus.

What is rhinovirus and why does it matter?

Rhinovirus is the most frequent cause of the common cold, responsible for a large share of upper respiratory infections each year. It spreads easily through droplets and contaminated surfaces, which is why it circulates so widely, especially during fall and spring. Knowing you have rhinovirus specifically (rather than another virus) helps you understand your recovery timeline and avoid unnecessary treatments like antibiotics, which don't work against viruses.

How often should I retest?

Most people don't need to retest for rhinovirus once they've recovered, since it's a short-term infection rather than an ongoing condition. However, if new respiratory symptoms develop later, a fresh test can help determine whether it's a new rhinovirus infection or a different illness. Retesting is also reasonable if you need updated documentation for work, school, or travel purposes.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result is positive, focus on rest, hydration, and over-the-counter symptom relief while your body clears the virus, which usually takes one to two weeks. Keep an eye out for warning signs like difficulty breathing, chest pain, high fever, or symptoms that get worse instead of better, and seek medical care right away if these occur. Practicing good hygiene, like frequent handwashing and covering coughs, can help prevent spreading the virus to others in your household.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Rhinovirus RNA PCR Test - Cold Virus Detection

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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