Influenza (H3N2) Test – Price, Purpose, Range & Reports

Test Overview

What is an Influenza By PCR (Influenza A, Influenza B, H3N2, H1N1) Test?

The Influenza A and B test by PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is an advanced diagnostic tool designed to detect the genetic material (RNA) of influenza viruses in your respiratory samples. This test is highly sensitive and helps identify not only influenza A and B viruses but also specific subtypes such as H3N2 and H1N1.

By amplifying unique genetic sequences through PCR technology, this test can detect even minimal amounts of viral material, making it more precise than traditional culture methods or rapid antigen tests. Major cities like Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Gurgaon, Noida, and Chennai have top-quality labs that offer the H3N2 test to help diagnose influenza accurately.

Timely detection of influenza is vital for appropriate treatment and infection control, especially during seasonal outbreaks or in close-contact environments like hospitals, schools, and long-term care facilities. The H3N2 test therefore plays a key role in safeguarding public health.

What is the Influenza by PCR (Influenza A, Influenza B, H3N2, H1N1) Test Price?

Several factors may influence the H3N2 test price in India. Here’s what you should know:

1. Location: The cost of the influenza A and B test can vary by city. Metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru may have slightly higher prices due to increased operational expenses and demand.
2. Laboratory Quality: The quality of the laboratory conducting the influenza A and B test also contributes to the H3N2 test price. Labs with advanced equipment and stringent quality control measures might charge more for their services, ensuring accurate results.
3. Test Complexity: The influenza test price can be influenced by its complexity. The PCR method, being highly sensitive and specific, can be more expensive than other forms of influenza testing.
4. Inclusions: The total H3N2 test price usually includes various costs such as lab charges, sample collection fees, and professional fees. It's important to understand what these charges entail to avoid any unexpected expenses.
5. Discounts & Offers: Some healthcare providers offer discounts or bundled packages for diagnostic tests like the influenza A and B test, which can significantly reduce your overall expense.

What is the Purpose of Influenza By PCR (Influenza A, Influenza B, H3N2, H1N1) Test?

The influenza A and B test by PCR (polymerase chain reaction) helps identify and diagnose varieties of influenza viruses including influenza A, influenza B, H3N2, and H1N1. Here's why this test is indispensable:

• Rapid Detection: This test delivers results within hours, allowing doctors to confirm a diagnosis quickly. This rapid turnaround is crucial for starting timely antiviral treatment and containing further spread.
• High Sensitivity: PCR technology can detect even low viral loads that other methods may miss. This ensures accurate results, even when symptoms are mild.
• Differentiation: The test distinguishes between influenza A and B, and further identifies subtypes like H3N2 and H1N1. This helps doctors tailor treatment based on the specific strain.
• Early Intervention: Detecting influenza early allows healthcare providers to start antiviral therapy and implement isolation measures to protect others from infection.
• Improved Patient Management: Accurate results from the H3N2 test guide decisions on further tests, treatment changes, or infection control measures — optimising patient care and public health management.

Who Should Get Influenza By PCR (Influenza A, Influenza B, H3N2, H1N1) Test Done?

Identifying who should get an influenza A and B test by PCR is pivotal for managing the spread of this infectious disease. Here's who should consider getting this H3N2 test done:

• Hospitalised Patients: Anyone admitted with suspected influenza, especially with severe respiratory symptoms, should consider this test.
  Outpatients with Flu-like Symptoms: Individuals with persistent fever, cough, sore throat, or fatigue benefit from this test for precise diagnosis and timely treatment.
• Patients with Lower Respiratory Tract Disease: If influenza is suspected but initial upper respiratory swabs are negative, a PCR test using lower respiratory tract samples may help confirm the infection.
• Critically Ill Patients: Additional samples may be needed for re-testing if the first PCR test is negative but clinical suspicion remains high.
• Patients with Prolonged Viral Shedding: The test is valuable beyond the typical isolation period for detecting ongoing viral shedding.
• Residents of Closed Settings: During an outbreak in a hospital, school, or care facility, an H3N2 test helps identify and contain the source of infection swiftly.

Components of an Influenza By PCR (Influenza A, Influenza B, H3N2, H1N1)

To understand your health better, it's crucial to comprehend the components of an influenza A and B test. This test helps in detecting the presence of various strains of influenza viruses. Let's delve into these components:

• Influenza A: This virus is a prime cause of human influenza. It's classified based on the two surface proteins, haemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). The most frequently found subtypes are H1N1, H2N2, and H3N2.
• Influenza B: Another type of influenza virus causing human infections is influenza B. It has different lineages like Victoria and Yamagata, included in the seasonal influenza vaccine.
• H3N2: This is a subtype of influenza A virus. Known for its capacity to mutate and instigate significant outbreaks, H3N2 has been linked with severe influenza seasons.
• H1N1: Another subtype of influenza A virus is H1N1. It caused significant outbreaks like the 2009 H1N1 pandemic and is part of the seasonal influenza vaccine.

Understanding an Influenza By PCR (Influenza A, Influenza B, H3N2, H1N1) Report