INFLUENZAE A&B ANTIGEN, RAPID

Mnemonic

INFAB

Synonym

Rapid Flu

Includes

Influenza A virus and Influenza B virus.

Specimen Collection Requirements

Collect

Nasal swab collected using foam, rayon, flocked, or polyester swabs.

To collect a nasal swab sample, carefully insert the swab into the nostril exhibiting the most visible drainage, or the nostril that is most congested if drainage is not visible.  Using gentle rotation, push the swab until resistance is met at the level of the turbinates (less than one inch into the nostril).  Rotate the swab several times against the nasal wall then slowly remove from the nostril.

Handling

Swab specimens should be tested as soon as possible after collection. If immediate testing is not possible, the nasal swab can be held in its original package at room temperature (18-22°C) for up to two (2) hours prior to testing. If the swab will be held longer than two (2) hours, it must be refrigerated at 2-8oC and tested within 24 hours from the time of sample collection.

Transport

Swab specimens should be tested as soon as possible after collection. If immediate testing is not possible, the nasal swab can be held in its original package at room temperature (18-22°C) for up to two (2) hours prior to testing. If the swab will be held longer than two (2) hours, it must be refrigerated at 2-8oC and tested within 24 hours from the time of sample collection

Rejection Criteria

Calcium alginate and Puritan Purflock® Ultra flocked swabs are not suitable for use in this assay.

Stability

Swab specimens should be tested as soon as possible after collection. If immediate testing is not possible, the nasal swab can be held in its original package at room temperature (18-22°C) for up to two (2) hours prior to testing. If the swab will be held longer than two (2) hours, it must be refrigerated at 2-8oC and tested within 24 hours from the time of sample collection.

Testing Information

Performed

7 days/week

Method

Rapid molecular test utilizing an isothermal nucleic acid amplification technology for the qualitative detection and discrimination of influenza A and B viral RNA.

Referral Lab

Samaritan Health Services Laboratories

Reference Values

Reference Values

Negative

CPT Codes

87502

Last Updated: Monday, September 17, 2018 03:03:46 PM