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Influenza A Virus RNA Detection by Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test checks for the presence of genetic material from the Influenza A virus in your blood or plasma, which can help diagnose recent infection.

Quick summary

["Detects Influenza A virus RNA quickly to guide treatment decisions if you suspect flu symptoms."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44795-3
Short code
FLUAV H5 Asian RNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
FLUAV H5 Asian 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—especially if you’ve been exposed to someone with the flu. It’s also used in outbreaks or during flu season to confirm infection in high-risk groups.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken, and the lab extracts viral RNA. Special probes detect the virus’s genetic material using advanced molecular techniques, which can identify Influenza A quickly, often within hours.

Sample Collection and Preparation

The test uses either serum (blood without clotting factors) or plasma (blood after clotting). No special preparation is needed, but fasting is not required.

What to Expect After the Test

Results are typically available within 24 hours. If positive, you may start antiviral treatment sooner to reduce severity. If negative, further testing or observation may be needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Influenza A RNA (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result confirms an active Influenza A infection. This helps guide treatment (like antiviral medications) and prevents spread to others. It’s especially useful for high-risk patients (e.g., elderly, immunocompromised) or in settings like hospitals or schools.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means the test did not detect Influenza A RNA at the time of testing. It could still be early in the infection, or you may not have been infected. Follow-up testing or monitoring symptoms is recommended if you develop flu-like illness shortly after.
Can this test detect all types of Influenza?
Yes, this test specifically detects Influenza A RNA, which includes subtypes like H1N1 or H5N1. Influenza B is tested separately with different probes.
  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