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Test Detail


Influenza SARS-CoV-2 RSV

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Test Description
  • Contact: Molecular Biology and Virology (319) 335-4376
  • Test Request Form: Flu/COVID/RSV Electronic Test Request Form. This electronic form is part of the OpenELIS Web Portal.
  • SHL OpenELIS Code: 1343
Nucleic acid amplification by PCR to detect Influenza A and B virus, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV RNA.
Panel Components
Influenza A, Influenza B, SARS-CoV-2, RSV
Reflex Test(s)
Influenza A Subtype by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Performed Avg. Turnaround Time Method
Coralville, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., M-F
1 - 5 business days Nucleic Acid Amplification by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Fee CPT Code(s)
No charge. 87637
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab, Nasal swab, Other. PCR is a very sensitive test, and precautions should be taken to not cross-contaminate specimens (i.e., wear gloves and change before and after collecting specimen. Avoid contact with environmental surfaces). DO NOT FREEZE SPECIMEN.
Collection Kits:
Collection Instructions: Nasopharyngeal (NP) Swab: A nasopharyngeal (NP) swab placed into viral transport medium (VTM) is the preferred choice for swab-based testing. To date, the scientific literature states that nasopharyngeal specimens have the highest yield of recovery of an infected patient. Insert swab through the nostril into the nasopharynx until tip reaches the posterior nasopharynx (a distance equivalent to that from the ear to the nostril of the patient). Leave the swab in place for 10 - 30 seconds. Slowly remove with a rotating motion. Place swab in M4-RT transport medium.
    Nasal Swab: Place Dacron-tipped or flocked swab in each nostril and allow to remain in place for several seconds. Place the swab in tube containing M4-RT transport medium.
      Acceptable Swabs: Synthetic tips (e.g. polyester or dacron) with a flexible plastic shaft, Eswab, Flocked swabs.
        Shipping:
        Specimens should be stored and shipped under the same conditions. Wrap specimen container in absorbent material and place inside a biohazard bag. Transport specimen with cold pack. Ship to the Coralville location.
        Temperature and Stability: Refrigerated (2-8 degrees C); stable for 72 hours.
        Rejection Criteria: Specimens will be rejected if received under these conditions:

        Frozen samples; Sample obtained on cotton-tipped, wooden- or aluminum-shafted or calcium alginate swabs; Swabs submitted in bacterial transport media (usually clear fluid); Broken, leaking, or unlabeled sample containers; Samples containing swabs other than those provided in the collection kit. Specimens not received in the correct temperature ranges stated under "Temperature and Stability" will be rejected.
        Expected Results:
        Influenza A: Detected, Not Detected, Invalid. Influenza B: Detected, Not Detected, Invalid. SARS-CoV-2: Detected, Not Detected, Invalid. RSV: Detected, Not Detected, Invalid.
        Comments
        Negative Influenza SARS-CoV-2 RSV test results do not preclude SARS-CoV-2, RSV, influenza A, and/or influenza B infection and should not be used as the sole basis for diagnosis, treatment or other patient management decisions. Negative results must be combined with clinical observations, patient history, and/or epidemiological information.
        Alternate Names
        Influenza, Influenza A and B, Influenza PCR, SARS-CoV-2 PCR, COVID-19 PCR, 2019 Novel Coronavirus PCR, Respiratory Syncytial Virus
        The University of Iowa

        State Hygienic Laboratory

        General inquires
        SHL Client Services
        319-335-4500 or 1-800-421-IOWA (4692)
        ask-shl@uiowa.edu

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