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Influenza (A and B) Virus PCR Panel Back to Test Directory
Test Description
  • Contact: Molecular Biology and Virology (319) 335-4376
  • Test Request Form: Viral and Bacterial PCR
  • SHL OpenELIS Code: 819, 821, (reflex tests: 820, 822)
Nucleic acid amplification by PCR to detect Influenza virus RNA
Panel Components
Influenza A Virus, Influenza B Virus
Reflex Test(s)
(Influenza A Subtype by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Influenza B Subtype by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): results not reported to facility but will be reported to IDPH and CDC.)
Performed Avg. Turnaround Time Method
Coralville, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., M-F
 1 - 3 business days Nucleic Acid Amplification by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Fee CPT Code(s)
No charge. 87502 x2, 87503 x2
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Preferred Specimen Types: Combined Nasopharyngeal/Throat swabs, Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab. Other acceptable specimen types: Nasal swab, Throat swab, Sputum, Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BAL), Bronchial brushings, Tracheal aspirate, Nasal wash/aspirate, Nasopharyngeal (NP) aspirate, Nasopharyngeal (NP) washings. Specimens for influenza testing should be collected within three days of onset of symptoms. PCR is a very sensitive test, and precautions should be taken to not cross-contaminate specimens (i.e., wear gloves and change before and after collecting specimen. Avoid contact with environmental surfaces).
Collection Instructions: Collect specimen using a SHL Virus Isolation and Detection Kit (contains M4-RT viral transport medium and swabs) or equivalent viral transport medium.

Combination Swabs: Nasal - Place Dacron-tipped or flocked swab in each nostril and allow to remain in place for several seconds. Place the swabs in tube containing M4-RT transport medium. Throat - Rub the tonsils and posterior pharynx with Dacron-tipped or flocked swab. Place the swabs in tube containing M4-RT transport medium.
    Nasopharyngeal (NP) Swab: Insert swab through the nostril into the nasopharynx until tip reaches the posterior nasopharynx (a distance equivalent to that from the ear to the nostril of the patient). Leave the swab in place for 10 - 30 seconds. Slowly remove with a rotating motion. Place swab in M4-RT transport medium.
      Temperature and Stability: Refrigerate (2-8°C); DO NOT FREEZE; Overnight
      Unacceptable Conditions: Frozen samples; Sample obtained on cotton-tipped, wooden-shafted or calcium alginate swabs.
      Expected Results: Influenza A RNA: Detected/Not Detected/Indeterminate. Influenza A Subtype RNA: H1 positive/H3 positive/2009 pdm positive/Inconclusive/Unsubtyped/etc. Influenza B RNA: Detected/Not Detected/Indeterminate/Equivocal. Influenza B Subtype RNA: Yamagata/Victoria/Inconclusive B lineage/Inconclusive due to low viral load.
      Shipping Instructions
      Wrap specimen container in absorbent material and place inside a biohazard bag. Transport specimen with cold pack.
      Comments
      PCR is the most sensitive method for flu detection. This assay can differentiate between Influenza A and Influenza B. Additional testing will be performed on Influenza A and B positive specimens to identify subtype.
      Alternate Names
      Influenza, Influenza A and B, Influenza PCR