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Influenza Virus Nucleic Acid Detection by Qualitative 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, helping determine if you may have an active infection.

Quick summary

["Quickly identifies possible influenza infection from a blood sample."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
85627-8
Short code
H influenz hpd Ct Spec Qn NAA+probe
Synonyms
H influenz hpd Ct Spec Qn 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 that could suggest influenza. It’s also used in settings like hospitals or clinics where rapid diagnosis is important to guide treatment or isolation decisions.

How the Test Works

The test uses a probe-based method to detect genetic material (nucleic acid) from the influenza virus in your blood. If the virus is present, the test will confirm it, though it won’t distinguish between different types of influenza.

Sample Collection

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate the serum or plasma for testing.

Test Results Interpretation

A positive result means the test detected influenza virus genetic material, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means no detectable virus was found in this sample, but it’s possible the infection is very early or has already cleared.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Influenza Virus Test (Qualitative)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates you may have an active influenza infection. This can help your healthcare provider confirm the diagnosis, recommend antiviral medications early, and guide decisions about isolation or further testing.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means the test did not detect influenza virus genetic material in this sample. However, it’s possible the infection is very recent, has already resolved, or you were infected with a strain not detected by this method. Follow-up testing or symptoms may be needed for confirmation.
How soon can I expect results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on lab processing times and testing volume. Your healthcare provider will contact you directly with the results.
  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