Influenza Group A & B (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test
Short Name: Influenza A/B RNA
Also known as: Flu A/B PCR, Influenza RNA PCR, Respiratory Virus Panel (Influenza)
Influenza Group A & B (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,100. Uses Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR) on Nasopharyngeal swab, nasal swab, throat swab, bronchial aspirate samples. Results in Reports are available on the 3rd working day after sample collection. Email reports within 36 hours of result availability, phone support 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 purpose of this test is to qualitatively detect the presence of influenza A and B viral RNA in respiratory specimens. It aids in confirming the diagnosis of influenza, distinguishing it from other respiratory infections, and guiding appropriate antiviral therapy. Early diagnosis helps in reducing disease severity, preventing complications, and implementing infection control measures.
- Test Code
- 6166
- CPT Code
- 87502
- ICD Code
- J10.1
- Price
- ₹5,100
- Sample Type
- Nasopharyngeal swab, nasal swab, throat swab, bronchial aspirate
- Result Time
- Reports are available on the 3rd working day after sample collection. Email reports within 36 hours of result availability, phone support 24 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR)
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or underlying conditions.
Method: Swab
Laboratory Analysis
A healthcare professional will collect a respiratory swab (nasopharyngeal or throat). The procedure is quick and may cause mild discomfort.
Report Delivery
No specific precautions. You may resume normal activities immediately.
Timeline: Reports are available on the 3rd working day after sample collection. Email reports within 36 hours of result availability, phone support 24 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of this test is to qualitatively detect the presence of influenza A and B viral RNA in respiratory specimens. It aids in confirming the diagnosis of influenza, distinguishing it from other respiratory infections, and guiding appropriate antiviral therapy. Early diagnosis helps in reducing disease severity, preventing complications, and implementing infection control measures.
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 in viral transport medium immediately
- Label the sample correctly with patient details
- Transport sample to the laboratory at 2-8°C or frozen as per guidelines
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early and accurate detection of influenza A and B is crucial for timely antiviral therapy and infection control. Molecular testing by RT-PCR is the gold standard due to its high sensitivity and specificity."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample not in appropriate transport medium
- Insufficient quantity
- Improper labeling
- Sample received after prolonged delay without proper storage
Understanding Your Results
Influenza A: Detected, Influenza B: Not Detected
Positive for Influenza A infection
Influenza A: Not Detected, Influenza B: Detected
Positive for Influenza B infection
Both Detected
Co-infection with Influenza A and B
Both Not Detected
No evidence of Influenza A/B; consider other respiratory pathogens
Consult a physician if you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, chest pain, confusion, or if symptoms worsen after initial improvement. Early medical advice is crucial for high-risk individuals.
Limitations
- ⚠Qualitative test does not provide viral load quantification
- ⚠Negative result does not rule out influenza if clinical suspicion is high
- ⚠May not detect novel influenza strains due to primer mismatch
- ⚠Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of minor bleeding or discomfort at collection site
- ●Very rare risk of vasovagal response (fainting) during swab collection
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper sample collection or storage
- ●Insufficient viral load (early or late infection)
- ●Presence of inhibitors in the sample
- ●Contamination during handling
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Influenza Group A & B (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Rapid Antigen Test | Viral Culture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Influenza Group A & B (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Rapid antigen tests provide results in 15-30 minutes but have lower sensitivity (50-70%) compared to RT-PCR. RT-PCR is more accurate, especially in early infection. | Viral culture is the traditional gold standard but takes 3-10 days and requires specialized labs. RT-PCR is faster and equally specific. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the Influenza A & B RNA test?
How is the sample collected?
Do I need to fast for this test?
How long does it take to get results?
What is the difference between Influenza A and B?
Can this test detect COVID-19?
Is home sample collection available?
What is the sensitivity of this test?
Can I take this test if I have no symptoms?
Is this test covered by insurance?
What should I do if my result is positive?
Are there any risks associated with the test?
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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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