Viral Zoonotic Respiratory Pathogen Screen (Real-Time PCR)
This test checks for common viruses that can cause respiratory infections, such as colds, flu, or other illnesses. It helps determine if your symptoms are due to a viral infection rather than another cause.
["Identifies possible viral infections causing your respiratory symptoms quickly and accurately."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 91784-9
- Short code
- VZV Lower resp Ql Cult
- Synonyms
- VZV Lower resp Ql Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- organism-specific-culture
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects genetic material (DNA or RNA) from specific viruses that commonly affect the respiratory tract. These may include coronaviruses, influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenoviruses, and others. The presence of these viruses is confirmed using a highly sensitive PCR (polymerase chain reaction) method, which amplifies and identifies viral genetic material in your sample.
How the Sample Is Collected
A nasal or throat swab is typically collected during your visit. This swab is placed in a special container and sent to the lab for testing. The sample is processed to extract viral genetic material for analysis.
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like coughing, sore throat, fever, or shortness of breath. It is often used to diagnose respiratory infections in patients with suspected viral causes, especially during outbreaks or when other tests are inconclusive.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may be asked to avoid certain medications or activities if instructed by your healthcare provider, but this is rare for a viral respiratory screen.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Respiratory Virus Screen
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I have this test if I have a cold or flu-like illness?
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