Flu Panel RTPCR Test Overview

Flu is one of the most common diseases among human beings. It affects people of all ages and can even lead to serious illnesses among people with comorbidities or immunodeficiency. A flu panel test is used by doctors to test a patient for the presence of several flu-causing viruses in the body.

Compared to individual tests, a flu panel test is more extensive and covers several individual tests, which helps doctors accurately determine the root cause of flu symptoms in patients. This test is very useful for patients who are seriously ill from flu symptoms, and doctors cannot immediately diagnose the type of flu that is affecting the patient.

Why Is A Flu Panel RTPCR Test Prescribed?

A flu panel test is a symptomatic test, especially when it comes to influenza RT PCR testing. This test is prescribed to patients who are showing symptoms of viral flu-like conditions. It can also be prescribed in cases where there’s an outbreak of flu in the area, and the patient is showing symptoms that may be connected to a viral infection. Here are some of the symptoms that warrant doctors to prescribe an influenza virus blood test or influenza RT PCR test.

Fever accompanied by chills
Dry cough
Body aches and unexplained fatigue/weakness
Stuffy or runny nose
Difficulty breathing
Symptoms of diarrhoea
Discomfort in the chest

Components of A Flu Panel RTPCR Test

The results of a flu panel RTPCR test are expressed as either positive or negative for the different components being tested. Here are the most commonly tested components of a flu panel test.

Influenza A: This virus is commonly known for causing diseases like seasonal flu.
Influenza B: This virus can commonly affect children and cause flu-like symptoms.
H1N1: This virus is known for causing the disease commonly known as swine flu.
H3N2: This virus can cause serious flu infection in people over 65 or under 5 years of age.
RSV: This virus is known for causing the common cold.
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19): The SARS-CoV-2 virus is known for causing COVID-19.

Procedure And Prerequisites

The influenza RT PCR test is performed by collecting cell samples from the patient's nasal cavity or throat. This is done by inserting a cotton swab into the nasal cavity and collecting the sample. The influenza virus blood test, on the contrary, is performed as a regular blood test. There are certain prerequisites patients must meet before going through a flu panel test. Patients must acquire and submit an H1N1 form & ICMR form with SRF ID for COVID-19 testing. For more information about the report delivery timeline, feel free to reach out to your local Aster Labs diagnostic centre.

FLU PANEL - RTPCR in Palakkad

F0211

Daily

H1N1 FORM & ICMR Form with SRF ID for COVID-19 are required

24 Hours

₹3,500

Parameters

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