Fluorescent Immunoassay for Viral RNA (e.g., Influenza A/B) in Nasopharyngeal Specimen
This test checks for genetic material from influenza viruses (types A or B) in your nasal or throat secretions using a fluorescent probe. It helps determine if you have an active infection.
["Quickly identifies flu viruses to guide treatment and isolation decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49524-2
- Short code
- FLUAV H3 RNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- FLUAV H3 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
How the Test Works
A swab is taken from your nose or throat to collect a sample. The lab uses a fluorescent probe to detect specific RNA sequences unique to influenza viruses. If the virus is present, the probe lights up, confirming infection.
When You Might Need This Test
Your doctor may order this test if you have flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat) and suspect influenza, especially during flu season or in high-risk groups (e.g., elderly, immunocompromised). It’s also used to confirm flu in patients with severe illness or suspected complications.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may blow your nose before the swab to clear nasal passages, but avoid using nasal decongestants or sprays 15 minutes before testing, as they can affect results.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare provider will insert a soft swab into your nose or throat to collect a sample. It’s quick and painless, though you may feel slight discomfort or irritation. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for early diagnosis of influenza, allowing prompt treatment with antiviral medications (e.g., oseltamivir) to reduce severity and shorten illness duration. It also supports public health efforts by identifying outbreaks and guiding isolation protocols. False negatives are rare but possible if symptoms are mild or sampling is inadequate.
Short name
Influenza RNA Detection (Qualitative Probe)
Frequently asked questions
Why was I tested for influenza RNA?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I still get the flu after testing positive?
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