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.
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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.
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