Anti-Viral Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibody to Influenza Virus (Serum)
This test measures the level of antibodies your body produces in response to exposure to the influenza virus. It helps determine if you’ve been infected or vaccinated against flu.
["This test checks for immunity to flu by detecting antibodies your immune system creates after exposure or vaccination."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86566-7
- Short code
- FLUAV IgG Ser Ql IA
- Synonyms
- FLUAV IgG Ser Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve had recent symptoms of the flu, have been exposed to someone with flu, or if you’re at higher risk for complications from flu infection. It can also be used to monitor immunity after vaccination.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm, and a small amount of blood will be drawn. The process usually takes a few minutes.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate the presence of antibodies against the influenza virus, suggesting past infection or vaccination. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, which could mean you haven’t been exposed or vaccinated recently.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often used to confirm flu infection, assess immunity status, or evaluate response to flu vaccination in high-risk groups like elderly individuals, those with chronic illnesses, or healthcare workers.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test helps identify individuals who may have developed immunity to flu, guiding decisions about vaccination, monitoring for infection, or managing exposure risks. It’s particularly useful in settings where flu outbreaks are common or where rapid diagnosis is critical.
Short name
IgG Anti-Influenza Antibody
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used to diagnose the current flu infection?
Is this test the same as a flu vaccine check?
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