1 - Serologic testing on paired acute- (within 1 week of illness onset) and convalescent-phase (collected 2-3 weeks later) sera is limited to epidemiological and research studies, is not routinely available through clinical laboratories, and should not inform clinical decisions.
2 - The amount of time needed from specimen collection until results are available.
3 - Compared with rRT-PCR tests; rRT-PCR tests are compared to other testing modalities including other rRT-PCR assays.
4 - Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests include tests that are CLIA waived (can be performed in an outpatient setting) and tests that are moderately complex (can be performed only in a laboratory). Clinical specimens approved for RIDTs vary by test, and may not include all respiratory specimens.
5 - Performance of these assays relies heavily on laboratory expertise and requires a fluorescent microscope
6 - Requires additional testing on the viral isolate
7 - The performance of rRT-PCR assays specific for 2009 H1N1 influenza have not been established for bronchoalveolar lavage and tracheal aspirates. If testing these specimens for 2009 H1N1 influenza consider testing in parallel with a nasopharyngeal, nasal, or oropharyngeal swabs or a nasal aspirate.
8 - See discussion on available rRT-PCR assays at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/diagnostic_tests.htm