Seasonal Influenza Virus Detection
Brief Description
Real-time RT-PCR (rRT-PCR) for determination of influenza A and B viruses, including subtype and genetic lineage, in upper and lower respiratory tract specimens.
Laboratory Unit
Molecular
Methodology
Real-Time RT-PCR
Specimen Collection and Transport
Use only viral transport medium and synthetic Dacron/flocked swab or equivalent. Do not use wooden shaft or cotton swab.
Collection of Seasonal Influenza Specimens
Collection and Submission of Influenza & SARS-CoV-2 Specimens for Virologic Surveillance
Acceptable Specimen Type(s)
Upper respiratory tract clinical specimens
- Nasopharyngeal Swab
- Nasal Swab
- Throat Swab
- Nasal Aspirate
- Nasal Wash
- Nasopharyngeal Swab / Throat Swab combination
Lower respiratory tract clinical specimens
- Bronchial Alveolar Lavage
- Bronchial Wash
- Tracheal Aspirate
- Sputum
Test Request Form(s)
Possible Results
Influenza A Detected
Influenza B Detected
Invalid
Influenza Not Detected
Influenza AH3 Detected
Influenza A 2009 H1N1pdm Detected
Influenza A(H3N2)v Presumptively Detected, specimen being forwarded to CDC for confirmation
Influenza A Virus Detected, Subtyping Not Performed
Inconclusive
Unsatisfactory (Specimen is inadequate for testing, a new specimen may need to be collected)
* Effective October 1, 2021, all specimens submitted for Influenza Real-Time PCR analysis will also receive testing for SARS-CoV-2 by Real-Time PCR analysis.
Unacceptable Conditions
The sample collected with improper collection device—cotton-tipped or calcium-alginate swab, wooden-shaft swab, transport media not intended for viruses.
Specimen received outside of acceptable temperature requirements
Patient identifiers on specimen do not match the requisition form.
Specimen container missing patient identifiers.
Specimen quantity not sufficient for testing
Result Reported
Influenza typing results are typically reported the same day the specimen is received. Influenza subtyping and lineage characterization may take up to 2 business days.
Fees
N/A
CPT Codes
N/A
LOINC/SNOMED Codes
N/A