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Influenza A & B and RSV PCR
Test CodeIFRSV
Alias/See Also
Flu / RSV PCR, Influenza / RSV PCR, Xpert Flu/RSV
Preferred Specimen
Nasopharyngeal swab in viral transport media
Patient Preparation
Collect nasopharyngeal specimens according to the following procedure using the recommended swab:
For collection and transport of nasopharyngeal swab specimens, use only the Xpert Nasopharyngeal Sample Collection Kit for Viruses
Minimum Volume
1 swab
Instructions
For proper test performance, use the swabs supplied in the kit.
To collect a nasal swab sample, insert the sterile swab into the nostril that presents the most secretion under visual inspection. 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 a few times against the nasal wall.
To collect a nasal swab sample, insert the sterile swab into the nostril that presents the most secretion under visual inspection. 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 a few times against the nasal wall.
Transport Container
NP swab in viral transport media [UTM universal transport media (red top) or VCM viral culture media (green top)]
Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated: 7 days; Frozen: not acceptable
Methodology
Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Assay
Limitations
- Erroneous test results might occur from improper specimen collection; failure to follow the recommended sample collection, handling, and storage procedures.
- False negative results may occur if virus is present at levels below the analytical limit of detection.
- Negative results do not preclude influenza virus or RSV infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or other patient management decisions.
Reference Range
Not detected
Clinical Significance
Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract. Transmission of influenza is primarily airborne (i.e., coughing or sneezing) and the peak of transmission usually occurs in the winter months. Symptoms commonly include fever, chills, headache, malaise, cough and sinus congestion.
Influenza viruses are classified into types A, B, and C, the former two of which cause the most human infections. Influenza A is the most common type of influenza virus in humans, and is generally responsible for seasonal flu epidemics and potentially pandemics.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a member of the Paramyxoviridae family, consisting of two strains (subgroups A and B) is also the cause of a contagious disease that affects primarily infants, and the elderly who are immunocompromised. The virus can remain infectious for hours on countertops and toys and can cause both upper respiratory infections, such as colds, and lower respiratory infections manifesting as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
