| Samples | Test | Pathogens covered | Comment |
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Best sample: Throat swab in virus transport medium (NOT IN CHARCOAL)
|
RealTime fever/rash multiplex RT-PCR |
Measles (throat swab) Parvovirus B19 (throat swab) Enteroviruses (throat swab/stool) Parechoviruses (throat swab) HHV-6 (throat swab) HHV-7 (throat swab) |
Measles is not routinely tested, but if required, please write this clearly on the request form or contact the consultant virologist/lab senior staff. |
|
RealTime RT-PCR |
Rubella (throat swab) |
Rubella PCR referred to Colindale.*
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Less satisfactory samples: Stool
Clotted blood (gold cap, 5 mL tube). Smaller tubes are available for paediatric samples.
|
Stool: Enterovirus PCR |
Enteroviruses |
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Clotted blood: Measles IgM |
Measles Parvovirus B19 ASO titre Rubella |
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Turnaround time |
see virology and microbiological serology turnaround times * Rubella PCR - referral lab quotes target turnaround time of 10 days, however additional time must be allowed for packing, dispatch and delivery of sample, and return and processing of results. |
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Enquiries |
Microbiology (Virology and Serology), ext. 64627 |
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Virus Reference Department, Microbiology Services Colindale, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5HT