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Influenza Virus Antibody Titration (Serum/Plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the level of antibodies your body produces in response to the influenza virus, helping determine if you’ve been exposed or vaccinated.

Quick summary

["Assesses immune response to flu infection or vaccination."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22821-3
Short code
Deprecated FLUAV Ab Titr Ser
Synonyms
Deprecated FLUAV Ab Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test to check if you’ve developed immunity to the flu after exposure or vaccination. It can also help diagnose recent or past infection, especially if symptoms are mild or unclear.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll provide a blood sample (usually from your arm) in a lab. No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider if you’re on blood-thinning medication or have bleeding disorders.

How the Results Are Used

Results help determine if your immune system has recognized the flu virus. Higher antibody levels suggest exposure or vaccination success, while lower levels may indicate no prior exposure.

Possible Results and Next Steps

If antibody levels are detected, your provider may recommend further testing (like PCR) to confirm active infection. If levels are low, they may suggest vaccination or booster doses.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for public health, helping track flu outbreaks and guide vaccination strategies. For individuals with weakened immune systems, it ensures timely intervention if exposure occurs.

Short name

Influenza Antibody Test

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times.
Can I get this test if I’m pregnant?
Yes, this test is generally safe during pregnancy, but always discuss it with your healthcare provider to confirm.
What if my antibody levels are low but I recently had flu symptoms?
Low antibody levels alone don’t confirm infection. Your provider may recommend additional tests (like rapid flu tests or PCR) to rule out active flu or other causes of symptoms.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy