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Influenza Virus Nucleic Acid Detection by Probe-Based Assay (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test checks for the presence of genetic material from the influenza virus in your blood, which may indicate an active infection.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests recent flu exposure; a negative result does not rule out infection if symptoms persist."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
68987-7
Short code
FLUAV H5b RNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
FLUAV H5b 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 flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, fatigue) and suspect influenza. It helps confirm or rule out infection quickly, especially in high-risk groups or during outbreaks.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is processed to detect viral genetic material using a sensitive probe-based method.

What the Results Mean

A positive result means the test identified influenza virus genetic material in your blood, indicating possible infection. A negative result means no detectable virus was found at the time of testing, but symptoms could still persist.

Possible Outcomes and Next Steps

If positive, follow your provider’s guidance for treatment (e.g., antiviral medications) and monitor symptoms. If negative but symptoms continue, retest or seek other diagnostic tests (e.g., rapid flu test).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Influenza Virus Test (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

This test is critical for diagnosing influenza early, especially in patients at higher risk of complications (e.g., elderly, immunocompromised). It supports timely treatment decisions and helps control outbreaks in communities.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Results are typically available within 24–48 hours, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they are ready.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a lab sample collected by a healthcare professional. Rapid flu tests (e.g., nasal swabs) are available at home but are less sensitive than this blood test.
A positive result could mean you’re incubating the virus. Follow your provider’s instructions for isolation (if applicable) and watch for symptoms. Antivirals may be prescribed early to reduce severity.
  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