Middle-Eastern Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) Polymerase Chain Reaction
Molecular
Real-Time PCR
Samples are referred to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for testing. Please contact the Molecular Unit at the MSPHL by calling 573-751-3334 for the latest guidance on collection and shipping requirements before collecting samples.
Samples are referred to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for testing. Please contact the Molecular Unit at the MSPHL by calling 573-751-3334 for the latest guidance on collection and shipping requirements before collecting samples.
Upper Respiratory Specimen, ie. Nasopharyngeal/Oropharyngeal swab
Lower Respiratory Specimen, ie. Sputum, broncheoalveolar lavage, tracheal aspirate or pleural fluid
Red-top or serum separator blood tube
EDTA purple top blood tube
It is important to collect EACH specimen type!
- MERS-CoV Negative
- MERS-CoV Presumptive Positive (Specimen will be referred to CDC for confirmation.)
- Inconclusive (An inconclusive result may occur in the case of an inadequate specimen.)
- Equivocal (Additional analysis may be conducted by CDC.)
- Unsatisfactory
The name on the specimen does not match the name on the requisition form.
The specimen container is not labeled with the patient's name.
Improper storage/transport of specimen.
The sample collected with improper collection device-cotton-tipped or calcium-alginate swab, wooden-shaft swab, transport media not intended for viruses.
The specimen is not one of the listed acceptable specimens.
Cotton-tipped or calcium-alginate swab, wooden-shaft swab, transport media not intended for viruses
Testing is performed and results are reported the same day the specimen is received.
None
N/A
N/A
CDC MERS-CoV Website
About Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) | CDC