Seasonal Influenza Virus Detection
Brief Description
Influenza Polymerase Chain Reaction
Laboratory Unit
Molecular
Methodology
Real-Time RT-PCR
Specimen Collection
Collection of Seasonal Influenza Specimens
Collection and Submission of Influenza & SARS-CoV-2 Specimens for Virologic Surveillance
Storage/Transport
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 (Specimen is inadequate for testing, a new specimen may need to be collected)
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
* 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
Improperly identified
Not meeting laboratory testing criteria
Interfering Substances
Use only viral transport medium and synthetic Dacron/flocked swab or equivalent. Do not use wooden shaft or cotton swab.
Result Reported
Influenza typing results are typically reported the same day the specimen is received. Influenza A subtyping may take up to 5 business days.
Fees
N/A
CPT Codes
N/A
LOINC/SNOMED Codes
N/A