Rapid Detection

Rapid Detection of Influenza A & B Now
available at BioTech Laboratory

BioTech Laboratory now offers a qualitative assay
for the rapid detection and differentiation of
Influenza A and B viral infections—just in time for
the flu season.

With the wide availability of antiviral therapy,
prompt diagnosis of influenza is more important
than ever. And, prompt diagnosis can reduce length
of illness, hospital stays, antimicrobial use and total
healthcare costs.

BioTech will be performing the Influenza A and B
assay at our main testing facility in St. Louis,
Monday through Friday. The test report will provide
separate findings for the detection of both Influenza
A and Influenza B.

Specimen collection for this assay is simple. Testing
is performed on specimens collected from a nasal
swab, nasopharyngeal (NP)swab, or nasal

wash/aspirate. Collect samples using the same
culturette swab and/or sterile specimen cup used

when submitting samples for culture.

If a traditional culture is also desired, a separate
sample should be submitted. It is recommended
that negative results be confirmed by cell culture,
especially if symptoms persist.

To order this test, please write in test code
INFAB on your lab request form. The test is an in
vitro immunochromatographic assay for the
qualitative detection of influenza A and B
nucleoprotein antigens. The billing CPT code for
this assay is 87804(x2). The assay is a moderately
complex test as defined by CLIA.

Influenza is a highly contagious, acute, viral
infection of the respiratory tract. It is easily
spread through coughing and sneezing, with
most outbreaks occurring during the fall and
winter months. Influenza A viruses are typically
associated with the more serious outbreaks, and
Influenza B infections are generally milder.

Questions? Contact your account representative
or your local BioTech Lab office.