Norovirus RNA Direct Detection  

 
IMPORTANT! Pre-approval needed from state or local health department. Local or State Health Department. Send approval to NPHL@unmc.edu or call (402) 559-9444.

NPHL has moved to an electronic ordering system, NUlirt, and it is now the preferred method to order all tests. Once ordered, print a "batch list" (see NUlirt Guide).

Forms Required - Nulirt batch list or NPHL Test Request Form (completed in entirety) must accompany the specimen to include the following information: symptoms and date of onset, pregnancy status, travel and vaccine history. Testing will not be performed without all required information.

Please call NPHL Client Services at (402) 559-2440 or toll free at (800) 334-0459 for further clarification.

 BACK | PRINT

Test: Norovirus RNA Direct Detection  
Synonym: Norwalk virus PCR, Human Calicivirus PCR 
Method: Qualitative Reverse Transcription Real-Time DNA Amplification  
Availability: Twice weekly; results reported within 3 days  
Specimen: Stool  
Collection Device: Sterile Container  
Volume: Minimum 1 mL stool  
Storage/Transport: Refrigerate after collection (if 3 days or less) or freeze  
Unacceptable: Stool stored at room temperature greater than 8 hours and stool contaminated with urine  
Specimen Stability: Ambient, 8 hours; refrigerated, 3 days; frozen, 1 month  
Reference Interval: No norovirus detected. Results for genotype I and II reported if positive.  
Reportable Disease: Positive result is reportable 
Comments: Although 4 genotypes of noroviruses are known, only genotypes I and II are detected by this assay. A negative result does not rule out the presence of PCR inhibitors (heme) in the patient specimen or norovirus concentrations below the level of detection of the assay. 
Revised: 7/1/2011 
If you have questions about proper specimen collection, please call NPHL Client Services at (402) 559-2440 or toll free at (800) 334-0459.

BACK