H1N1 (Swine Flu) RNA Detection Test By Real-Time PCR, Swab

• To determine whether an individual has been infected with the H1N1 swine flu virus.
• To identify the presence of virus-specific RNA sequences in a sample from an infected person.
• To help doctors determine how to best treat an infected patient.
• To monitor the spread of the virus in the population.
• To detect the virus early and prevent further transmission.
• To provide timely information for public health authorities to plan and implement containment strategies.
• To develop new methods of antiviral therapy.
• To create better vaccines against the virus.

H1N1 (Swine Flu) RNA Detection By Real-Time PCR - Swab Test detects the presence of H1N1 influenza virus RNA using a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. This test specifically detects the genetic material of the H1N1 influenza virus, which is responsible for causing swine flu.

A nasopharyngeal and a throat swab will be collected by our trained phlebotomist, who will wear necessary preventive barriers before collection. Instructions will be given to you on what to expect before sample collection. In brief, one swab will be introduced through the nose to collect sample from the nasopharynx and a second swab will be used to collect sample from the throat. Process usually takes less than 5 minutes post all preparations have been done.

There are no "normal" levels of H1N1 (Swine Flu) RNA Detection By Real-Time PCR - Swab Test. This test is qualitative, meaning it detects the presence or absence of the H1N1 influenza virus RNA in the sample. If the virus RNA is detected, it indicates an active infection with the H1N1 influenza virus. The result is typically reported as either "positive" if the virus RNA is detected or "negative" if it is not detected. The interpretation of the test result depends on the clinical context and symptoms presented by the patient.

H1N1 detected result means that virus RNA has been detected in sample and patient is likely to be suffering from H1N1 infection. It is important to note that this detect will detect RNA of dead virus and hence clinical correlation should be done to interpret the results. H1N1 not detected result means that virus RNA has not been detected in the patient sample. Timing of sample collection is important. Virus can be detected during 1st week of illness.

There are no significant risks or complications associated with this test.

The following tests are commonly ordered along with the real-time PCR swab test for precise diagnosis:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC).
• Chest X-ray.
• Influenza A and B Antibody Test.
• Serum Immunoglobulins Test.
• Viral Culture Test.

• Influenza A virus
• Pandemic Swine Influenza A virus
• Pandemic Swine H1 influenza virus
• qRT-PCR

Swine flu, also known as the H1N1 virus, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a type of influenza virus that primarily affects pigs. The virus can spread from person to person and can cause mild to severe illness. Symptoms of swine flu include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. Swine flu can be serious, even deadly, especially in people with chronic health problems and compromised immune systems.

• People who have had recent contact with someone infected by H1N1 swine flu.
• People who have traveled to an area known to have cases of H1N1 swine flu.
• People who have symptoms of H1N1 swine flu, such as fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
• People at higher risk of complications from H1N1 swine flu, such as pregnant women, individuals with chronic health conditions, and young children.
• Healthcare workers who have been in close contact with patients known to be infected with H1N1 swine flu.