Aid in the differential diagnosis of influenza A virus, influenza B virus, and RSV infections by nucleic acid amplification

Methodology

Multiplex real-time PCR (RT-PCR)

Reference Interval

Not detected

Providers can order this test as part of a Respiratory Pathogen Profile

Limitations

This test does not differentiate influenza A subtypes (i.e. H1N1, H3N2) or RSV subgroups (i.e. A or B); additional testing is require to differentiate any specific influenza A subtypes or strains or specific RSV subgroups, in consultation with local public health departments.

• Insurance

• If insurance is not billed, patients are responsible for the cost for testing - $200. Pay for test here.

1-2 days

Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of receipt of a specimen to the laboratory. Testing schedules may vary.

Submit one specimen per specimen source on tests requested

Collection

Collect Nasopharyngeal swab specimens according to standard technique using a polyester-, rayon-, or nylon-tipped swab. Immediately place the swab specimen into 3 mL of VTM.

The following types of VTM were verified for use.

• BD Universal Viral Transport Medium

Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab in a 3mL of VTM: BD Universal Viral Transport Medium

Volume

3 mL

Storage Requirements

Maintain specimen at 2°C to 8°C up to 96 hours.

Rejection Criteria

Samples collected incorrectly (ie. Swabs other than NPs, transport media other than the acceptable media listed above, cotton swab, specimens stored at wrong temperature, etc.); samples transported incorrectly; unlabeled or improperly labelled specimens; quantity of transport media not sufficient for testing; leaking or co-mingled samples.)

Sample Report