Influenza RNA Detection by Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from the influenza virus in your blood or plasma. It helps determine if you have an active infection caused by one of the influenza viruses.
Detects active influenza virus infection in your blood or plasma to guide treatment and monitor recovery.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57985-4
- Short code
- FLUAV H2 RNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- FLUAV H2 RNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 have symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or fatigue that could be caused by the flu. It’s also used in certain settings, such as hospitals or long-term care facilities, to identify outbreaks or monitor high-risk individuals.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw a blood sample. The process is quick and usually painless. No special preparation is needed, but let your provider know about any medications or health conditions you have.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means the test detected genetic material from the influenza virus in your blood or plasma, suggesting you have an active infection. A negative result means the virus was not found in the sample at the time of testing.
How the Test Works
This test uses a molecular method to identify fragments of the influenza virus’s RNA. A probe is used to bind to these fragments, allowing for precise detection even in small amounts of virus.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Early detection of influenza infection is crucial. It allows healthcare providers to administer antiviral medications more quickly, which can reduce symptoms, shorten illness duration, and lower the risk of complications. This test is particularly important for high-risk groups, such as the elderly, young children, or those with chronic health conditions.
Short name
Influenza RNA Test (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive test mean for my health?
Can I still get the flu even if my test is negative?
How long does it take to get my test results?
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