Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Testing of symptomatic and seriously ill patients can help distinguish WNV from other conditions (such as bacterial meningitis) causing similar symptoms. A positive ribonucleic acid (RNA) test for the West Nile virus is an indicator that you have the virus. Testing will only be carried out on requests accompanied by a completed RIPL request form, including full travel details. Form is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/rare-and-imported-pathogens-testing-form-to-submit-sample
Specimen container paediatric:
EDTA Blood or CSF in sterile Universal.
Specimen container adult:
EDTA Blood or CSF in sterile Universal.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1ml
Minimum volume adult:
5ml
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C. Please provide full travel and yellow fever vaccination history.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test:
N/A
Quality assurance:
Sample referred to Reference Laboratory.
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable.
Reference ranges:
None available
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C
Referenced Documents:
N/A
Other info:
Referred to Porton Down.