Influenza Nucleic Acid Detection by Probe-Based Assay (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from the influenza virus in your blood. It helps determine if you may have an active infection, even if symptoms aren’t yet obvious.
["Assists in diagnosing recent influenza exposure or infection through viral RNA detection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44264-0
- Short code
- FLUAV H5 RNA Spec NAA+probe-aCnc
- Synonyms
- FLUAV H5 RNA Spec NAA+probe-aCnc
- 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 This Test Works
The test uses a specialized probe to detect fragments of the influenza virus’s RNA in your blood sample. This method is highly sensitive and can identify the virus even when symptoms are mild or absent.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from your arm. The test is usually done as part of a routine lab visit or at a clinic.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, or body aches, especially if you’ve been exposed to someone with the flu. It’s also used in outbreaks or during flu season to confirm infection.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means the test detected influenza virus RNA in your blood, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means no detectable virus RNA was found, but this doesn’t always rule out infection if the test was taken too early.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is critical for early diagnosis of influenza, allowing for prompt treatment with antiviral medications that can reduce severity and shorten illness duration. It also supports public health efforts by identifying outbreaks and guiding prevention strategies.
Short name
Influenza Virus RNA Detection
Frequently asked questions
Why was I asked to take this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I still get the flu even if this test is negative?
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