Advanced Diagnostic Laboratories

Express PCR for SARS-Cov-2, FluA, FluB, and RSV

Test Code

4PLEX

Description

This is a PCR test that can quickly determine the presence of multiple viruses from a single patient specimen.

Viruses that will be detected and differentiated are: influenza A, influenza B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2

Collect

Nasopharyngeal Swab: Insert swab into either nostril, passing into the posterior nasopharynx. Rotate swab by firmly brushing against the nasopharynx several times. Remove the swab and immediately break swab off into 3 mL of viral transport media.

Nasal Swab: Insert swab 1 to 1.5cm into a nostril. Rotate swab against the side of the nostril several times, with a minimum of 3 seconds contact time, while applying pressure with finger to the outside of the nostril. Repeat the process in the other nostril with the same swab. Break the swab off into 3mL of viral transport media immediately upon collection.

Preferred volume: 3 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL

Unacceptable Conditions

Specimens received outside of temperature storage requirements
Specimens received outside of stability time frame
Specimens not received in VTM
Specimens in expired transport media
Specimens from a source not acceptable for this testing
Specimens that do not meet the minimum volume requirement
Specimens that are excessively leaking
Mislabeled or unlabeled specimen

Stability

For optimal recovery of potential pathogens, specimens should arrive within 2 hours at room temperature (20-25°C)
If transportation is delayed, specimens may remain at room temperature (20-25°C) for a maximum of 24 hours
If long delays are anticipated, specimens must be refrigerated (2-8°C) for a maximum of 7 days

Performed

7 days a week from 8am to 6pm

Methodology

Multiplex real-time RT-PCR. Performed on the Cepheid GeneXpert.

Turnaround Time

< 24 hours

Department

Microbiology Lab

Synonyms

SARS-CoV-2 RNA, Influenza A/B and RSV RNA, Qualitative NAAT

Study Offerings

RUO
CAP/CLIA