Viral Respiratory Screen
The Viral Respiratory Screen is a PCR-based test that detects common viruses causing coughs, colds and flu-like illness. It helps identify the exact viral cause of respiratory symptoms quickly and accurately.
Turnaround time
1-2 days
Biomarkers count
13
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Details about Viral Respiratory Screen
What is a Viral Respiratory Screen?
A Viral Respiratory Screen is a molecular diagnostic test designed to detect the genetic material (RNA or DNA) of common respiratory viruses. It uses PCR technology, which is considered the gold standard for identifying active viral infections.
This test is particularly useful when respiratory symptoms are non-specific, prolonged, or severe. Many respiratory viruses cause similar symptoms, and this panel allows precise identification of the responsible virus rather than relying on symptoms alone.
The screen is suitable for adults and children and is commonly used in both acute illness and persistent or recurrent respiratory symptoms.
What does the Viral Respiratory Screen test for?
This panel includes 13 individual viral biomarkers, covering the most common causes of viral respiratory infection:
- Influenza A
- Influenza B
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV RNA)
- Rhinovirus RNA
- Coronavirus RNA (seasonal, non-COVID)
- Adenovirus DNA
- Human Metapneumovirus RNA
- Enterovirus RNA
- Parechovirus RNA
- Parainfluenza virus type 1
- Parainfluenza virus type 2
- Parainfluenza virus type 3
- Parainfluenza virus type 4
This broad coverage makes the test highly effective for differentiating flu, RSV and other viral causes of respiratory illness.
Why do I need a Viral Respiratory Screen?
A Viral Respiratory Screen is recommended when symptoms suggest a viral infection but the exact cause is unclear. Identifying the virus can guide appropriate management and avoid unnecessary treatments.
You may benefit from this test if you have:
- Cough or persistent cough
- Fever or flu-like symptoms
- Sore throat or hoarseness
- Runny or blocked nose
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Symptoms lasting longer than expected
- Recurrent respiratory infections
- Respiratory illness in children or vulnerable adults
- Need to rule out bacterial infection
Knowing the viral cause can also help with infection control, isolation decisions and reassurance.
Benefits of a Viral Respiratory Screen
- Accurate identification of the virus
Confirms the exact cause of respiratory symptoms. - PCR-level sensitivity
Detects viruses even at low levels early in infection. - Differentiates flu, RSV and other viruses
Avoids guesswork based on symptoms alone. - Reduces unnecessary antibiotic use
Confirms viral rather than bacterial illness. - Supports clinical decision-making
Helps guide monitoring, isolation and recovery expectations. - Suitable for adults and children
Widely used in paediatric and adult medicine. - Fast and reliable results
Enables timely reassurance or follow-up. - Broad viral coverage in one test
Avoids multiple separate tests.
How is the Viral Respiratory Screen performed?
The test is carried out using a nasal or throat swab, depending on clinical indication.
- A sterile swab is used to collect a sample
- The sample is analysed using PCR technology
- No fasting is required
- The procedure is quick and well tolerated
Your Viral Respiratory Screen Results Explained
Negative Result
What this means:
- No viral genetic material detected from the panel
What it suggests:
Symptoms may be resolving, caused by another virus not included, or related to non-viral causes.
Positive Result
What this means:
- Genetic material from one or more viruses has been detected
What it suggests:
An active or recent viral infection consistent with your symptoms.
Results are interpreted in the context of symptoms, timing and clinical history.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.