avian flu/acute respiratory virus testing

Indications

• suspected avian flu
• positive influenza antigen test for influenza A

Specimen

• nasal aspirate or wash (preferred)
• naspharyngeal swab (acceptable)
• transport in viral transport media

Specimen sent to Public Health Department

Deliver within 48 hours

Turn around time 24-72 hours

More general terms

• clinical microbiology test