Flu-Xpert Viral Panel Test (Influenza/ Flu Panel)
Also known as: Flu - Xpert Virus Panel, Swab
Overview
Flu-Xpert Viral Panel is a diagnostic test that is designed to detect several respiratory viruses including Influenza A, Influenza B, H1N1, H3N2, and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This panel uses a molecular technique known as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to detect viral RNA in respiratory specimens such as nasopharyngeal swabs or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid.
The test is designed to be quick and easy to use, providing results within a few hours. This rapid turnaround time is particularly important during flu season when quick diagnosis can help in the management of outbreaks and in the initiation of appropriate antiviral therapy. The test has a high degree of sensitivity and specificity, meaning it is able to accurately identify the presence or absence of the target viruses.
If you are feeling under the weather and suspect something more serious than a common cold, the flu panel test might offer the clarity and peace of mind you need. This advanced diagnostic test checks for multiple viruses simultaneously, using highly sensitive technology.
- The flu panel test is formally known as the influenza panel test.
- It detects several viruses, including Influenza A, Influenza B, H1N1 (Swine Flu), H3N2, and RSV.
- This test uses a molecular method called Real-Time PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction).
- A simple swab from the nose or throat is taken as a sample.
- Results are typically available within 24 hours, helping you start timely treatment.
Due to its speed and high sensitivity, this test is especially valuable during flu season or in case of respiratory illness outbreaks.
Associated Test: COVI-INFLUENZA VIRUS PANEL BY REAL TIME PCR (Inf A, Inf B, H1N1(Swine Flu), H3N2, RSV, Covid-19)
Reasons for Undergoing the Flu Panel Test
There are several strong reasons why your doctor may recommend a flu panel test. If you're dealing with respiratory symptoms that don’t seem to improve, it’s best not to guess.
- You’re experiencing flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, and cough.
- You’ve been exposed to someone diagnosed with a flu virus or respiratory illness.
- You have a weakened immune system, making early detection crucial.
- You’re a caregiver, healthcare worker, or part of a high-risk population.
- You want an accurate diagnosis to begin antiviral treatment promptly and avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics
- You’ve recently traveled to or live in an area with known flu outbreaks.
By understanding what's causing your symptoms, the test guides you toward faster, more effective treatment.
List of Parameters Considered During the Flu Panel Test
The influenza panel test checks for a cluster of common but serious respiratory viruses. Each one can cause complications if left untreated, especially in vulnerable individuals.
- Influenza A – A common flu virus known for seasonal outbreaks.
- Influenza B – Another seasonal flu strain that typically affects children and young adults.
- H1N1 (Swine Flu) – A subtype of Influenza A known for rapid community spread.
- H3N2 – Another Influenza A subtype that causes seasonal flu epidemics.
- RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) – A virus particularly dangerous for infants and older adults.
- Covid-19 (optional in extended panel) – A respiratory virus that may present with similar symptoms.
These parameters are targeted using high-precision PCR technology, offering reliable results.
What Does the Flu Panel Test Measure?
When you undergo a flu panel test, the goal is to identify the genetic material (RNA) of specific viruses, even in small quantities. This ensures high accuracy and early detection.
- Viral RNA is the main component detected by the test through PCR.
- The test determines whether you’re currently infected, not just previously exposed.
- It helps distinguish between flu strains with similar symptoms.
- It assesses the severity by detecting viral load (in some versions).
- The test may measure co-infections (e.g. flu + RSV or flu + COVID-19).
By measuring viral presence in respiratory samples, doctors can tailor your treatment.
In short, influenza panel test gives a clear picture of what's affecting your respiratory system.
Conclusion
The Flu Panel test offers fast, accurate detection of major flu viruses, helping you act early and recover quicker. With expert technicians, trusted diagnostic reports, and convenient home collection options, getting tested is simple and stress-free. For reliable diagnostics backed by over 40 years of excellence, choose Metropolis Healthcare—where science meets care, and your health comes first.
Flu - Xpert Virus Panel, Swab Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the Flu - Xpert Virus Panel, Swab with a clear pricing structure.
The Flu - Xpert Virus Panel, Swab Price in Pune is ₹ 5,330 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
The Flu-Xpert Viral Panel detects Influenza A, Influenza B, H1N1, H3N2, and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Flu-Xpert Viral Panel is done to:
- Aid in the diagnosis of respiratory infections caused by Influenza A, Influenza B, H1N1, H3N2, and RSV.
- Provide rapid and accurate results, allowing for timely initiation of appropriate antiviral therapy.
- Monitor the prevalence and distribution of these respiratory viruses in different populations.
- Guide infection control measures in hospital and community settings to prevent the spread of these viruses.
- Assist in identifying outbreaks of respiratory illnesses caused by these viruses and help implement appropriate public health measures to contain them.
If the results of the Flu-Xpert Viral Panel are abnormal, it means that one or more of the respiratory viruses that the test detects have been detected in the patient's respiratory sample. If the test detects Influenza A or B, antiviral therapy may be initiated to treat the infection. In the case of RSV, supportive care such as oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation may be required, particularly in infants or patients with underlying medical conditions. In addition to treatment of the underlying infection, infection control measures may be implemented to prevent the spread of the virus to other individuals. This may include isolation precautions in hospital or community settings and contact tracing to identify individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
During the Flu-Xpert Viral Panel, a respiratory sample will be collected from the patient using a nasopharyngeal swab, which involves inserting a long, thin swab through the nostril and into the back of the throat to collect a sample of secretions. Other types of respiratory samples, such as bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, may also be collected in some cases. During the collection of the respiratory sample, patients may experience some discomfort, such as a tickling or itching sensation in the nose or throat, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated and does not cause significant pain. Patients should follow the instructions of their healthcare provider regarding the collection of the respiratory sample and any other pre-test instructions.
There are generally no specific preparations required before a Flu-Xpert Viral Panel. However, patients should follow any instructions provided by their healthcare provider regarding the collection of the respiratory sample. Patients may be asked to wear a mask or other personal protective equipment (PPE) during the test to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to healthcare providers.
The Flu-Xpert Viral Panel is typically recommended for individuals who present with symptoms of respiratory illness during flu season or when respiratory infections are prevalent in the community.
The symptoms that may prompt healthcare providers to order a Flu-Xpert Viral Panel may include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
In addition to the Flu-Xpert Viral Panel, healthcare providers may order other tests to help diagnose and manage respiratory infections, depending on the patient's clinical presentation and medical history. Some common tests that may be ordered alongside the Flu-Xpert Viral Panel include:
- Complete blood count (CBC): This test measures the levels of different types of blood cells and can help detect signs of infection, inflammation, or anemia.
- Sputum culture: This test involves collecting a sample of sputum (mucus coughed up from the lungs) and sending it to a laboratory for analysis to help identify the specific bacteria causing a respiratory infection.
- Rapid antigen test: This test is a quick diagnostic test that can detect the presence of certain respiratory viruses, such as influenza, in a respiratory sample. However, it may be less sensitive and specific than the Flu-Xpert Viral Panel.
- COVID-19 test: In the current pandemic, a COVID-19 test may also be ordered alongside the Flu-Xpert Viral Panel to help diagnose a SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Influenza A test
- Influenza B test
- H1N1 test
- Swine flu test
- Flu Test
- H3N2 test
- Human flu test
- Hong Kong Virus Test
- Respiratory syncytial virus test
- RSV test
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