Skip to content

Viral Antibody Profile (Qualitative) – Fluorescent Immunoassay (FIA) for Influenza A and B

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

This test checks for antibodies to Influenza A and B viruses in your blood, helping determine if your immune system has been exposed to these viruses.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose past exposure to flu viruses and supports infection monitoring."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6442-8
Short code
FLUAV+FLUBV+FLUCV Ag Spec Ql IF
Synonyms
FLUAV+FLUBV+FLUCV 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 specific antibodies (IgG and IgM) against Influenza A and B using a fluorescent immunoassay. Antibodies are proteins your body produces in response to infection. This method identifies whether your immune system has encountered these viruses.

Why It’s Ordered

Doctors may order this test to confirm past exposure to flu viruses, assess immune response, or evaluate symptoms in patients suspected of having or recovering from influenza.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood) is then tested for flu-specific antibodies using a fluorescent assay.

When Results Might Be Relevant

Positive results indicate your immune system has likely encountered Influenza A or B, but they don’t confirm active infection. Results can guide vaccination decisions or monitor immune response post-exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Influenza Antibody Screen (FIA)

Frequently asked questions

Why was I asked to have this test?
Your healthcare provider may have recommended this test to assess your immune response to flu exposure, evaluate symptoms, or confirm vaccination effectiveness. It helps differentiate past infection from current illness.
What do my results mean?
Positive results suggest your body has made antibodies against flu viruses, but they don’t indicate whether you currently have the flu. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found at this time.
How long will it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on lab processing times.
  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