Influenza Rapid Test – Routine FluA, FluB, RSV

Diagnostic Use

For mainstream routine respiratory testing during Influenza/RSV season.

Rapid screening using molecular PCR to identify key respiratory viruses during outbreaks.

In cases that clinically justify a wider selection of respiratory pathogens, reflex testing can be performed using our Respiratory multiplex assay by contacting the laboratory directly on ext 80356 or by stating clearly on original request: "FULL RESPIRATORY MULTIPLEX" with clear clinical details supporting this request. If clinical details do not support testing, the extended panel will not be performed.

Department

Microbiology - Virology

Delphic Registration Code

LABR

Synonyms

Flu-Rapid PCR -FluA,FluB, RSV
RSV-Rapid PCR -FluA,FluB,RSV

Turnaround Time

2 hours

Test Code

9550

Specimen Type

• Nasopharyngeal Swab

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Swab - Viral

Pre-testing Requirements

To minimise inhibition in the assay, please ensure the patients blow their nose prior to taking a nasopharyngeal swab

Additional Specimen Information

Samples should be taken as early as possible within the first 3-5 days after onset of symptoms.
For instructions on collection of respiratory specimens refer to the Instructions for Respiratory Viral Testing
For further details please access https://canterbury.communityheathpathways.org
See link to Swab Guide under Additional Information section below

Aliquot Instructions

Transport to Lab

Chilled (2 - 8 degrees Celsius)

Additional Referral/Aliquot Information

There are different pathways for testing Flu A, B , RSV & SARS-CoV-2 based on clinical presentation, patient vulnerability and admission requirements. Please refer to the Te Whatu Ora PRISM COVID-19 Information Portal for the Respiratory virus streaming guide and guidelines for Admission Testing and Flow Pathways.

Critical pathway is <2 hours for results
Fast Track is 3-4 hours for results
Non-hospital requests are available within 24 hours

Interpretation

Single or multiple viruses may be detected. All viruses will be reported. Results available immediately on HCS and ICNet
Assistance with interpretation is available from the Virology/Serology Service 0800 THE LAB extn 80354

Reference Intervals

Results reported as Detected or Not Detected for individual viruses tested.
Specimens that fail for technical reasons will be tested by another method and/or reflex tested for the full respiratory multiplex panel, meaning results will be delayed.

Test Method

Molecular virology analysis of Flu A, Flu B and RSV viruses by rapid PCR technique.

Non-Funded Test Cost

$133.9 (Exclusive of GST)

Billing Code

9550

If full multiplex respiratory panel is required in weekends then this request must first be cleared with the on call Microbiologist. Testing of the full respiratory multiplex assay does not carry the same fast turnarounds of the Influenza rapid test.

Resources

• Swab Guide (232 KB)
• Instructions for Respiratory Viral Testing

Contact Information

Enquiry Form