Preferred Sample Type

Influenza A

Suitable Specimen Types

NPA Nose and Throat Swab

Influenza A

Specimen Volume

3ml

Specimen Transport

Sample must be transported to laboratory as soon as possible

Turnaround Time

Within 24 hours

Sample Stability

If transport is delayed, sample can be refrigerated for up to 12 hours

General Information

Throat swabs or nasopharyngeal aspirates for Influenza A, Influenza B, RSV, Sars-CoV-2 test must be received in 3ml viral transport media.

Please Note: If a comprehensive respiratory virus screen is required, e.g. for immuno-compromised patients, samples must be collected in a different tube.

If you are unsure; contact the laboratory using extension number 16534 during normal working hours or via switchboard at other times.

Results are communicated electronically to Bed Management Teams and Infection Control.

 

Information Sharing: If your sample needs to be referred or a notifiable disease is detected from your sample, your details and sample may be shared with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This is a legal requirement. The UKHSA is sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care.

Specifications

  • EQA Status: Enrolled to UK NEQAS scheme
  • EQAS Scheme: Yes

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Location of Laboratories

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