Influenza Virus Nucleic Acid Detection by Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (Throat Swab)
This test checks for the presence of the influenza virus in your throat swab sample to help diagnose flu infection.
["Determines if you may have the flu by detecting its genetic material."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6440-2
- Short code
- FLUAV+FLUBV+FLUCV Ag Throat Ql IF
- Synonyms
- FLUAV+FLUBV+FLUCV Ag Throat 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, sore throat) within days of exposure to the flu virus or if you’re at higher risk for complications from flu. It helps confirm whether your symptoms are due to influenza or another illness.
How the Test Works
A throat swab is collected to gather cells and fluids from your throat. The sample is then tested for genetic material from the influenza virus using a highly sensitive molecular method (nucleic acid amplification). This process detects the virus even if symptoms are mild or early.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may swallow the throat swab gently, and it will be disposed of after use. If you have a sore throat, you might feel some discomfort, but it’s brief.
What to Expect During the Test
The test is quick and painless. A healthcare provider will insert a soft swab into your throat to collect a sample. The swab is then sent to a lab for analysis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for diagnosing influenza early, especially in high-risk groups (e.g., children, elderly, or immunocompromised individuals). Accurate results help guide treatment decisions, such as antiviral medications, which can shorten illness duration and reduce severity. It also supports public health efforts by identifying outbreaks.
Short name
Influenza Virus Test (Throat Swab)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I get the flu even if this test comes back negative?
What if I have mild symptoms but test negative?
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