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Fluorescent Immunoassay for Respiratory Viral Nucleic Acid Detection (Upper Respiratory Specimen)

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

This test checks for the presence of respiratory viruses, including flu strains, in your upper respiratory tract using a molecular probe. It helps diagnose infections quickly and guides treatment decisions.

Quick summary

["A fast, accurate way to detect respiratory viruses that may cause illness."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
85477-8
Short code
FLUAV RNA Upper resp Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
FLUAV RNA Upper resp 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 fluorescent probe to detect genetic material from respiratory viruses in your nasal or throat swab sample. If the virus is present, the probe binds to its genetic material, and a signal is generated to confirm infection.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a nasal or throat swab collected by a healthcare provider during your visit. The sample is then analyzed in the lab to detect viral nucleic acids.

When You Might Need This Test

This test is commonly used when symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, or congestion suggest a viral infection, especially during flu season or in outbreaks. It can also be used for diagnostic confirmation in suspected cases.

What the Results Mean

A positive result indicates the presence of respiratory viruses, supporting a diagnosis of infection. A negative result means no detectable virus was found in the sample at the time of testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Early detection of respiratory viruses helps healthcare providers tailor treatment, such as antiviral medications, and reduces the spread of infection. It is particularly useful in managing outbreaks or when symptoms are mild but concerning.

Short name

Upper Respiratory Flu Viral Probe

Frequently asked questions

Why was I asked to take this test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, cough, or sore throat that suggest a viral infection, or if you are at higher risk for respiratory illnesses.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means the test detected viral genetic material in your sample, which strongly suggests you have a respiratory viral infection. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice for next steps.
Can I get this test at home?
Some healthcare providers may offer at-home collection kits for this test, but it’s best to confirm with your provider. Testing at home is typically done with a nasal swab and sent to a lab for analysis.
  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