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Choose collection locationMicrobiology & PCR · Individual laboratory test
Influenza Virus A & B Antigen, Throat Swab
This entry is the throat-swab version of the influenza A and B antigen test. The specimen site matters when matching a test to a referral.
Price for this test on its ownAED 155Test price AED 55
Clinical authorDr Nirupama SabhapathySpecialist Clinical Pathology
- Sample
- Swab
- Laboratory turnaround
- 24 hours
- Collection
- Dubai
- Laboratory
- Intel Lab
Understanding the test
What does Influenza A & B Antigen (Throat Swab) measure?
Also called Flu A & B Antigen (Throat)
A throat swab may be requested for this influenza antigen method. It addresses influenza A and B specifically, rather than the wider range of respiratory viruses.
When it may be requested
Testing a throat specimen
This order specifies a throat swab for influenza A and B antigens.
Reviewing a negative swab
Sampling site and illness stage can influence whether antigen is detected.
Before your sample
Prepare for collection
SpecimenSwab
Your checklist
No fast is needed. Follow the laboratory's instructions on mouthwash, gargles and throat sprays before the swab and give the time symptoms began.
A clinician takes a throat swab for this order. Tell them about recent treatment and when your symptoms began.
Smart Report
Understanding your result
24 hoursLaboratory turnaround
Result guideInfluenza Virus A & B Antigen, Throat Swab
Reading your result
The report relates to antigen recovered from the throat swab. Sampling time and clinical findings influence whether a negative result needs molecular follow-up.
What can affect it
- The test checks influenza A and B and does not identify other causes of sore throat or fever.
From sample to follow-up
Your testing journey
Laboratory testInfluenza Virus A & B Antigen, Throat Swab
- Specimen
- Swab
- Turnaround
- 24 hours
Open your laboratory report
Look for Influenza Virus A & B Antigen, Throat Swab in your report. Use the sample type and collection time when comparing it with an earlier report.
Explore Smart Report
Discuss the next step
Identify the sample as a throat swab when discussing the result, especially if it differs from another respiratory test.
Clinical expertise
Your laboratory team
Patient questions
Before you book
Can I substitute the nasal or throat version myself?
Confirm the specimen requested with the care team. Test performance depends in part on the type of specimen and the timing of sampling.
When is the best time to take a flu test?
Within the first few days of symptoms, when the amount of virus in the throat is at its highest. A swab taken very early in the illness, or several days in once shedding has faded, is more likely to read Not Detected even when influenza is the cause, so tell your doctor when your symptoms started.
Is a throat swab as accurate as a nose swab for flu?
Accuracy depends on which swabs the particular test accepts and how soon after symptoms the sample is taken. A negative rapid antigen result can miss flu, especially when flu is widespread. A positive result is harder to interpret when little flu is circulating. Your clinician may request a molecular test if confirmation changes care.
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Your next step
Influenza A & B Antigen (Throat Swab) test at home.
Sources & further reading
Written by Dr Nirupama Sabhapathy, Specialist Clinical Pathology. Medically reviewed by Dr Joyce Jose, Specialist Clinical Pathology, on .
Catalogue information and AED price checked on 2 November 2026. Clinical suitability, preparation, collection arrangements and turnaround are confirmed for your selected test.