Skip to content

Fluorescent Immunoassay for Antibodies to Influenza Virus (Type-Specific)

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

This test measures antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to previous exposure to the influenza virus. It helps determine if you’ve been infected with a specific type of flu virus.

Quick summary

["This test checks for past exposure to flu viruses, not current infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49012-8
Short code
FLUAV + FLUBV Spec Bioassay
Synonyms
FLUAV + FLUBV Spec Bioassay
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
bioassay
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 order this test if you’ve had symptoms of flu-like illness (e.g., fever, cough, fatigue) and want to confirm exposure to a specific flu strain. It can also be used in research or outbreak investigations to track flu virus circulation.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken and tested using a fluorescent immunoassay. This method detects antibodies that your body made in response to flu antigens, helping identify which flu virus you were exposed to.

Sample Collection

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is processed and sent to a lab for testing.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a slight bruise or soreness at the injection site, but this usually goes away quickly.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is primarily useful for research or epidemiological studies to track flu virus circulation. It does not diagnose active flu infection or replace other diagnostic tests like rapid flu tests or PCR tests for current illness.

Short name

Influenza Antibody Test (FIA)

Frequently asked questions

Does this test tell me if I have the flu right now?
No, this test checks for past exposure to flu viruses, not current infection. If you’re experiencing flu-like symptoms, other tests may be needed to diagnose an active illness.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
  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