Influenza B Viral Load Quantitative Test
Short Name: Influenza B Viral Load
Also known as: Influenza B PCR, Influenza B RNA Quantification
Influenza B Viral Load Quantitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,100. Uses Real-Time PCR on Nasopharyngeal swab, nasal swab, throat swab, bronchial aspirate samples. Results in Reports are delivered within 3 working days after sample collection. Email reports are sent within 36 hours after the report is generated, and phone consultation is available within 24 hours.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the Influenza B Viral Load Quantitative Test is to diagnose active Influenza B infection and quantify the viral burden. This information helps clinicians assess the severity of the infection, monitor the response to antiviral medications, and make decisions regarding hospitalization and infection control measures. Unlike rapid antigen tests, this molecular test offers higher sensitivity and specificity, reducing the likelihood of false negatives. Quantitative results are particularly valuable in immunocompromised patients where prolonged viral shedding may occur, and in research settings to study viral dynamics.
- Test Code
- 6161
- CPT Code
- 87502
- ICD Code
- J10.1
- Price
- ₹5,100
- Sample Type
- Nasopharyngeal swab, nasal swab, throat swab, bronchial aspirate
- Result Time
- Reports are delivered within 3 working days after sample collection. Email reports are sent within 36 hours after the report is generated, and phone consultation is available within 24 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real-Time PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, especially antiviral drugs.
Method: Swab
Laboratory Analysis
A healthcare professional will collect a respiratory sample using a swab from your nose or throat. The procedure is quick and may cause mild discomfort.
Report Delivery
You can resume normal activities immediately. The sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Timeline: Reports are delivered within 3 working days after sample collection. Email reports are sent within 36 hours after the report is generated, and phone consultation is available within 24 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the Influenza B Viral Load Quantitative Test is to diagnose active Influenza B infection and quantify the viral burden. This information helps clinicians assess the severity of the infection, monitor the response to antiviral medications, and make decisions regarding hospitalization and infection control measures. Unlike rapid antigen tests, this molecular test offers higher sensitivity and specificity, reducing the likelihood of false negatives. Quantitative results are particularly valuable in immunocompromised patients where prolonged viral shedding may occur, and in research settings to study viral dynamics.
How to Prepare
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during collection
- Collect sample within 3-5 days of symptom onset for best sensitivity
- Place swab immediately into viral transport medium
- Label the sample correctly with patient details
- Transport sample to laboratory at 2-8°C within 48 hours
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Quantitative viral load testing is essential for monitoring severe influenza B infections, especially in immunocompromised patients, to guide antiviral therapy and assess treatment response."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample not in viral transport medium
- Insufficient quantity
- Sample leaking or broken container
- Improper labeling
- Sample received after prolonged delay without proper storage
Understanding Your Results
Not detected
No Influenza B RNA detected. Active infection is unlikely, but clinical correlation is advised.
Detected (low viral load)
Indicates active infection with low viral burden. May be seen in early or late stages of infection.
Detected (high viral load)
Indicates active infection with high viral burden. Often associated with more severe symptoms and higher transmissibility.
If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, persistent high fever, or if symptoms worsen after initial improvement, seek medical attention immediately. Also consult your doctor if you are in a high-risk group and suspect influenza.
Limitations
- ⚠A negative result does not rule out Influenza B infection if sample quality is poor or collected too early/late
- ⚠Quantitative results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical presentation
- ⚠Test does not differentiate between Influenza B lineages (Yamagata/Victoria)
- ⚠Not intended for screening asymptomatic individuals
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of discomfort during sample collection
- ●Rare possibility of minor bleeding from nasal swab
- ●No significant systemic risks
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper sample collection or storage may lead to degradation of viral RNA
- ●Recent use of antiviral medications may reduce viral load
- ●Co-infection with other respiratory pathogens may affect clinical interpretation
- ●Sample contamination can cause false positives
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Influenza B Viral Load Quantitative Test | Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Test (RIDT) | Influenza Viral Culture | Influenza NAAT (qualitative) | Influenza B Viral Load Quantitative |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Influenza B Viral Load Quantitative Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the Influenza B Viral Load Quantitative Test?
How is the sample collected for this test?
Do I need to fast before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
What is the difference between this test and a rapid flu test?
Can this test detect both Influenza A and B?
Is home sample collection available?
What should I do if my result is positive?
Are there any risks associated with the test?
Can I take antiviral medication before the test?
Is this test covered by insurance?
How accurate is this test?
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Reference Laboratory Services
We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
Your Data Privacy
Your medical data is protected under Indian law.
✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.
✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.
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