Influenza Virus Nucleic Acid Detection (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for genetic material from the influenza virus in your blood. It helps determine if you have an active infection caused by the flu virus.
["Determines if the flu virus is present in your bloodstream, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5863-6
- Short code
- FLUAV Ag Spec Ql IF
- Synonyms
- FLUAV Ag Spec Ql IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects the genetic material (nucleic acid) of the influenza virus, which can be found in your blood if you have an active infection. This is done through a specialized molecular technique that identifies viral DNA or RNA.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, body aches) and suspect influenza. It can also be used to confirm a diagnosis in certain clinical settings, such as during outbreaks or in high-risk populations.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is tested for the presence of influenza virus genetic material.
How the Results Are Interpreted
Results are typically reported as either positive (indicating the presence of influenza virus nucleic acid) or negative (no detectable virus). A positive result suggests an active infection, while a negative result means the virus was not found in the sample at the time of testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Influenza RNA Test
Frequently asked questions
This test is crucial for diagnosing influenza early, allowing for prompt treatment with antiviral medications that can reduce severity and shorten illness duration. It also supports public health efforts by identifying outbreaks and guiding preventive measures.
Results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the laboratory’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will contact you once the results are ready.
No, this test specifically looks for the genetic material of influenza viruses. It does not detect other viruses, including common cold viruses or COVID-19.
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