Skip to content

Serum or plasma probe for respiratory viral nucleic acid detection (qualitative)

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

This test checks for the presence of viruses in your respiratory tract, such as those that cause colds, flu, or other infections. It uses a sample from your blood (serum or plasma) to detect genetic material from viruses.

Quick summary

["A simple blood test to identify respiratory infections quickly and accurately."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
88565-7
Short code
VZV DNA Lower resp Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
VZV DNA Lower 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 involves collecting a small amount of blood from your arm. Your blood sample is then analyzed in a lab to detect genetic material from common respiratory viruses. This process identifies whether you have an active infection caused by one of these viruses.

What to Expect Before the Test

You may have no preparation needed for this test. However, inform your healthcare provider if you are on blood-thinning medications or have any bleeding disorders, as this may affect blood collection.

What the Test Results Mean

If the test is positive, it means your blood contains genetic material from a respiratory virus, suggesting you have an active infection. A negative result means no detectable virus was found in your sample at this time.

Common Respiratory Viruses Detected

This test can detect genetic material from several common respiratory viruses, including but not limited to: influenza viruses (A and B), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinoviruses, and coronaviruses (such as those causing COVID-19).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Respiratory Virus PCR Test

Frequently asked questions

Why was I asked to take this test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as cough, fever, sore throat, or shortness of breath. It can also be used to confirm a suspected diagnosis or monitor the progression of an infection.
What are the possible side effects of this test?
The most common side effect is a mild bruise, redness, or slight pain at the injection site. Rarely, there may be a slight swelling or discomfort. Most side effects are minor and resolve quickly.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results once they are ready.
  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