Influenza Virus Nucleic Acid Detection, Serum/Plasma
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from the influenza virus in your blood. It helps determine if you have an active infection caused by one of the flu strains.
["A flu test from your blood can confirm if you’re currently infected with the flu virus."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31859-2
- Short code
- FLUAV Ag Spec Ql
- Synonyms
- FLUAV Ag Spec Ql
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have flu-like symptoms (such as fever, cough, or body aches) and suspect you’ve been exposed to the flu. It’s also used in certain settings like hospitals or long-term care facilities to monitor outbreaks or guide treatment decisions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means the test detected genetic material from the influenza virus, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means the virus wasn’t found in your blood sample at the time of testing. Results don’t indicate how long you’ve had the flu or if you’ve recovered.
Possible Results and Next Steps
If positive, you may need antiviral medications to help shorten the illness. If negative but you still have symptoms, other causes (like COVID-19, colds, or other viruses) could be responsible. Follow up with your provider for further guidance.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for confirming influenza infection early, especially in high-risk groups (e.g., elderly, immunocompromised individuals). It supports treatment decisions, helps prevent spread in communities, and can guide isolation or quarantine measures. Results may also influence decisions about vaccination timing or booster recommendations.
Short name
Influenza Virus RNA Test
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I’ve had the flu before?
How soon after exposure can I get a positive result?
Can I get this test at home?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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