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.

The H1N1 test is a diagnostic procedure that detects the presence of the influenza A (H1N1) virus, which causes swine flu. It involves collecting swab samples from throat and nasal/nasopharyngeal and analysing them using RT-PCR or other molecular tests to identify the virus.

You can book a home sample collection for the H1N1 lab test through various diagnostic centres' websites or by contacting them directly. Many labs such as Metropolis Healthcare offer online booking services for your convenience.

Swine flu is treated with antiviral medications such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza), especially if started early in the illness. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to alleviate symptoms are also recommended. In severe cases, hospitalisation may be necessary.

Prevention of swine flu includes getting the annual flu vaccine, which has included protection against H1N1 since 2010. Other preventive measures include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick people, avoiding touching your mouth, nose, and eyes, and staying home if ill.

The H1N1 test is used to diagnose swine flu by detecting the presence of the influenza A (H1N1) virus in the body. It helps differentiate swine flu from other types of flu and respiratory infections, enabling accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Common symptoms of swine flu include high fever, cough, headache, dehydration, chest pain, low blood pressure, runny nose, body pain, sore throat, and vomiting. In babies and children, symptoms may include severe irritability, refusal to feed, or difficulty breathing.

You should get tested for H1N1 if you exhibit symptoms suggestive of swine flu, especially if you have been exposed to someone with swine flu or have recently travelled to areas with swine flu outbreaks. Testing is based on clinical suspicion.

The H1N1 test should be performed within the first few days of the illness to ensure accurate diagnosis.

No, fasting is not required for the H1N1 test.

Before getting tested, consult with a healthcare provider to assess the need for the H1N1 test.

The primary parameter included in the H1N1 test is the detection of the influenza A (H1N1) virus in the nasal and throat swab samples using RT-PCR or other molecular tests. The test specifically looks for the genetic material of the H1N1 virus.

H1N1, or swine flu, can be a serious disease, especially for high-risk groups such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic health conditions. In severe cases, it can lead to complications like pneumonia, respiratory failure, and even death.

The H1N1 pandemic lasted from 2009 to 2010, with the virus first emerging in April 2009. The World Health Organization declared the pandemic over in August 2010. However, the H1N1 virus continues to circulate as a seasonal flu strain.

H1N1 spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. The virus can be contagious one day before symptoms appear.

Yes, the H1N1 virus can cause pneumonia, which is a serious lung infection. Pneumonia can develop as a complication of swine flu, especially in high-risk individuals. Symptoms of pneumonia include cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Prompt medical attention is crucial.

The H1N1 test is done by collecting throat and nasal/nasopharyngeal swab samples from the patient.

The H1N1 test should be done when a person exhibits symptoms suggestive of swine flu, especially if they have been exposed to someone with swine flu or have recently travelled to areas with swine flu outbreaks.

The H1N1 test becomes positive when the influenza A (H1N1) virus is detected in the collected swab samples. A positive result confirms the presence of the H1N1 virus and a diagnosis of swine flu.

The H1N1 test typically takes 1-3 days for results.

The availability of H1N1 test report takes 24 to 48 hours based on day/date the sample was colleted and processed. Hiwever, rapid antigen test results may be available within a few hours, while RT-PCR test reports may take a day or two. Discuss the expected timeline with the healthcare provider or diagnostic centre.