Influenza Panel PCR - Influenza A, H1N1, H3N2, Influenza B' Test
Blood Sample
Free Home Collection
Digital Smart Report
Recommended for Male/Female
NABL & CAP Certified Labs
Trusted by Leading Doctors & Organizations
About Influenza Panel PCR - Influenza A, H1N1, H3N2, Influenza B' Test
Influenza Panel PCR test is a diagnostic assay to detect the presence of the Influenza virus in the patient's respiratory tract. The test uses a real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique to differentiate between influenza A and B viruses, as well as subtype the influenza A viruses into H1N1 and H3N2 in the sample (usually throat and nasal swabs) collected from patients with sign and symptoms of respiratory viral infection.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by different strains of the influenza virus that spreads mainly through the air (large droplets and aerosols from sneezing and coughing) and sometimes by touching virus-contaminated surfaces. When there is an upsurge of respiratory illnesses with symptoms similar to the common cold, the influenza Panel PCR helps doctors speed up treatment efforts and take appropriate infection control measures to prevent the virus from spreading into the community.
What is the Influenza Panel PCR Test Used For?
Your doctor may request an Influenza Panel PCR assay
-
To diagnose patients suffering from flu from some days
-
To differentiate between the flu and other viral or bacterial infections
-
For determining the severity of infection and provide appropriate treatment plan for early patient recovery
-
To identify the spread of influenza infection into the community
Symptoms of Influenza
People suffering from influenza often show these signs and symptoms
-
Fever with chills
-
Recurrent cough with sore throat
-
Runny or stuffy nose
-
Muscle and joint pains
-
Headaches
-
Tiredness
-
Vomiting and diarrhea in children
Test preparation
Generally, the Influenza Panel PCR (Influenza A&B, H3N2, H1N1) requires no special preparation. But before sample collection, let your doctor know the history of your medical conditions and any allergies you may have.
Interpretation of the Test Results
Results of Influenza Panel PCR are interpreted as follows:
Positive result (Abnormal)
This report indicates the presence of active flu-causing viruses (Influenza A or B, H3N2, and H1N1) in the provided sample.
Negative result (Normal)
This report means you don't have an active infection at the time of sample collection, but it does not necessarily rule out the risk of getting infected with the virus after testing.
FAQs on Influenza Panel PCR - Influenza A, H1N1, H3N2, Influenza B' Test
Both Influenza A and B are strains of the influenza virus cause similar symptoms; however, they differ in severity and transmission. Influenza A spreads more easily and leads to more severe complications than Influenza B.
To do this PCR test, a swab or brush of cells is inserted into the patient's throat and nasal passage to collect the sample.
This test is usually advised for individuals with symptoms of sore throat, fever, repeated cough, etc., as well as those who have been in contact with a COVID-positive person or patient with flu.
Influenza Panel PCR (Influenza A&B, H3N2, H1N1, RSV) is generally safe. However, you may feel slight discomfort during sample collection (nasal and throat swabs), although the odds of serious complications are extremely rare.
Rapid molecular influenza diagnostic tests can detect influenza virus genetic material in upper respiratory tract samples with high sensitivity (90-95%) and specificity, indicating high accuracy.
Influenza Panel PCR - Influenza A, H1N1, H3N2, Influenza B' Test
