Understanding the Swine Flu Panel: Influenza A (H1N1, H3N2) & Influenza B



Swine flu, medically known as Influenza A H1N1, has often raised concerns for its potential to cause widespread respiratory illness. But the broader picture of “flu” includes not just H1N1 — but other subtypes like H3N2 (also influenza A) and influenza B. That’s why, for accurate diagnosis, doctors may recommend a Swine Flu Panel (or flu panel) that tests for all these strains together.

What Exactly Is in the Swine Flu / Flu Panel at Dr. Dangs Lab?

According to Dr. Dangs Lab’s test menu, their Flu Panel includes:

  • Influenza A (including subtypes)

  • Influenza B

  • H1N1 (swine flu)

  • H3N2 virus 

Sample & Test Method

  • The test uses oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal swabs in a special Viral Transport Medium (VTM). 

  • For the focused H1N1 panel (with A, B, H1N1, H3N2), Dr. Dangs Lab lists a price of Rs 4,500. 

  • The comprehensive / respiratory BioFire panel (which checks many respiratory pathogens in addition to flu) is priced at Rs 9,900.

  • For a variant panel including RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) along with the flu strains, the cost is Rs 6,500. 

  • According to Dr. Dangs Lab, when samples are collected by 3:00 pm (Monday–Saturday), the report is often ready by 7:30 pm the same day for some panels. 

Why Test with a Swine Flu Panel?

  1. Differentiates Virus Strains
    — Flu symptoms (fever, cough, fatigue, sore throat) can broadly overlap across subtypes. A panel helps the clinician identify if it's H1N1, H3N2, or influenza B, which can guide treatment decisions and isolation recommendations.

  2. Timely Diagnosis
    — Early detection means better management, especially in high-risk individuals (elderly, immunocompromised, children).

  3. Public Health Implications
    — Knowing the circulating strain (e.g., whether H3N2 is more common) helps in surveillance, vaccination planning, and preparing for potential outbreaks.

Why Choose Dr. Dangs Lab for This Panel?

Here’s how Dr. Dangs Lab stands out as a provider for flu testing:

  • Best Pathlab in Delhi: Dr. Dangs Lab has a long-standing reputation, having been established in 1983. 

  • Diagnostic Lab in Delhi: With multiple centres across Delhi (e.g., New Friends Colony, Punjabi Bagh, Vasant Kunj), it's easily accessible. 

  • Blood Test Lab in Delhi: Though the flu panel uses swabs, Dr. Dangs Lab also offers a very wide range of blood tests, making it a full-service pathology lab. 

  • NABL-Accredited Lab: Quality is a priority — Dr. Dangs Lab has been NABL-accredited since 2001. 

  • Trusted Diagnostic Centre in Delhi: Thanks to its long history, expert pathologists, and quality assurance, it is considered a reliable lab. 

Booking & Convenience: How to Get Tested at Dr. Dangs Lab

  • Home Sample Collection: Dr. Dangs Lab provides home collection services, making it convenient if you can’t visit a centre. 

  • Online Booking / Reports: You can book tests and get reports through their website, making the process smooth and efficient. (Dr. Dangs Lab)

  • Fast Test Reports: For relevant flu panels, they mention reports can be ready within a few hours (depending on the panel). 

Who Should Consider This Test?

  • People experiencing flu-like symptoms, especially persistent or severe ones.

  • High-risk individuals — elderly, pregnant, or immunocompromised.

  • If a doctor suspects H1N1 or other influenza subtypes, especially during flu season.

  • Those needing confirmation for epidemiological or treatment reasons.

Prevention & What to Do After Testing

  • If your Swine Flu Panel comes back positive, follow your doctor’s advice: antiviral therapy may be recommended, and isolation helps prevent spread.

  • Practice standard flu prevention: frequent hand washing, covering your nose/mouth when coughing, avoiding close contact when sick.

  • Consider preventive health checkups during flu seasons — regular testing can be part of a broader strategy.

  • Maintain vaccination: Seasonal flu vaccines are updated annually and are effective in reducing severity or risk of infection.

Why Accurate Pathology Testing Matters

  • Accurate pathology testing in Delhi ensures that a proper diagnosis is made — not just “you have the flu,” but which strain.

  • Labs like Dr. Dangs Lab, with stringent quality systems (NABL-accreditation) and reliable processes, help ensure the test outcome is trustworthy.

  • For public health and individual treatment, knowing the subtype can influence decisions (e.g., whether to hospitalise, what medications to give, etc.).

Conclusion

In summary, the Swine Flu Panel that tests for Influenza A (H1N1, H3N2) and Influenza B is a powerful diagnostic tool. By choosing a trusted pathology lab like Dr. Dangs Lab, you get access to fast, accurate, high-quality testing backed by NABL accreditation. Whether you’re unwell, or looking to proactively check during flu season, this panel with convenient online booking and home blood or swab collection is a smart, responsible choice for your health.

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