Anti-Human Flu Virus Nucleic Acid Test (Qualitative, Probe-Based)
This test checks for genetic material from the flu virus in your respiratory sample to determine if you have an active infection.
["Determines flu infection status with a simple, rapid probe-based test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 68986-9
- Short code
- FLUAV H5a RNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- FLUAV H5a 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
The test uses a specialized probe to detect the presence of flu virus genetic material (RNA) in your sample. If the virus is present, the probe will bind to its genetic material, triggering a detectable signal. This method is highly sensitive and designed to quickly identify flu infection without needing to culture the virus.
Sample Collection
You’ll provide a nasal or throat swab sample (or similar respiratory specimen) during a routine visit. The sample is then processed in the lab to extract viral RNA for testing.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. If you’re experiencing flu-like symptoms, it’s best to get tested as soon as possible for the most accurate result.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means the test detected flu virus genetic material, suggesting you likely have an active flu infection. A negative result means no flu virus was detected in the sample at the time of testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Viral RNA Detection (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
This test helps confirm flu infection quickly, which can guide treatment decisions (e.g., antiviral medications) and prevent potential spread to others. It’s particularly useful in high-risk populations or during flu season when symptoms may overlap with other illnesses.
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, fatigue) and suspect flu infection, especially if you’re at higher risk for complications.
Results are typically available within 24 hours or less, depending on lab processing times. Follow up with your provider for interpretation.
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