Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
- Nose and Throat Swab
- Throat Swab
Turnaround Time
3 daysSample Stability
Samples are stable at room temperature, althoughrefrigeration may improve sensitivity.
Measles Virus PCR
General Information
The assay is used for qualitative detection of Measles virus RNA in clinical samples using real time PCR.
Patient Preparation
For general aspects of taking respiratory samples we recommend that users follow either their local protocols or “The Royal Marsden Manual of Clinical Nursing Procedures”.
Nose and throat swabs for virology:
Use a green topped virology transport medium kit (labelled as Green Top Sigma-VIROCULT swab).
Throat: Ask patient to sit upright facing a strong light, tilt head backwards, open mouth and stick out tongue. Depress tongue with a spatula. Ask patient to say ‘Ah’. Quickly but gently roll the swab over the tonsils and posterior pharynx.
Nose: Ask patient to tilt head backwards. Insert swab inside the anterior nares with the tip directed upwards and gently rotate.
Place the swab(s) in the transport liquid and snap off the swab shaft at the score line so it fits into the sample pot. Close the cap tightly and label with patient information. Label as
“throat” or “nose and throat”.
Specifications
- EQA Scheme?: Yes
- EQA Status: QCMD