Test Code SARS-COV-2/FLU/RSV SARS-COV-2/Influenza A/B and RSV, PCR
Methodology
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Specimen Requirements
Container/Tube: Universal/Viral Transport Media, Smart Transport Media, M4 Media
Specimen Volume: 3mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Collection from Nasopharynx
2. Refer to Microbiology Specimen Collection Procedure for collection instructions
Submit only 1 of the following specimens (specimen source is required):
Preferred:
Nasopharyngeal Swab: Flocked swab in viral transport media. Send specimen refrigerated.
Alternate:
Nasopharyngeal Wash: Minimum 2 mL of nasopharyngeal wash in a sterile container. Send specimen refrigerated. Note: Excessive wash volume may result in decreased test performance.
Nasopharyngeal Aspirate: Minimum 0.5 mL of nasopharyngeal aspirate in a sterile container containing 2 mL of saline. Send specimen refrigerated.
Oral/Pharyngeal (throat) Swab. Throat swab in viral transport media. Send specimen refrigerated.
Specimen Collection Instructions
Specimen Transport Temperature
Refrigerate
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday – Sunday
Reference Values
Negative
Performing Laboratory
Beebe Healthcare Laboratory
Performing Location
Margaret H. Rollins Laboratory
South Coastal Campus Laboratory
Specialty Surgical Hospital Laboratory