Influenza A/B RNA Detection

What it is for

Confirms influenza infection during seasonal epidemics, distinguishes type A from type B to guide antiviral choice (oseltamivir, baloxavir), and supports surveillance and outbreak control in hospitals and communities.

Limitations

A negative result does not exclude influenza if sampling is late in illness or transport is delayed; rapid antigen tests have lower sensitivity than PCR and should not be used alone to rule out infection.

Before you test

For individuals: a swab of the nose or throat takes under a minute; no fasting is needed. Ask your provider how and when you will receive results, usually within hours for PCR.

Health information only. This guide does not diagnose or replace advice from a healthcare professional.

Also known as

• flu test
• influenza PCR
• flu A/B assay