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Test Code NCVP Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) RNA PCR

Important Note

Please refer to sample collection procedure for upper respiratory virus.

Suspected highly infectious specimen, i.e., A(H5N1) and MERS-CoV, should be carefully packaged and clearly labeled with "Suspected A(H5N1) or MERS-CoV" for easy identification.

A special collection media (red top) is needed. Please dispatch a porter to the Molecular Diagnosis Centre with the following instruction: "Collect 1× swab for MERS PCR".

Infectious

Laboratory Code

LAB2086

Specimen Requirements

Preferred
Specimen Type: Swab Sources: Nasopharyngeal, nasal, throat
Container/Tube: Universal transport media
Specimen Volume: Entire collection
Please contact the laboratory for universal transport medium

 

Acceptable
Submit only one of the following:
Specimen Type: Nasopharyngeal aspirate/wash or nasal aspirate
Container/Tube: Sterile plain container
Specimen Volume: Entire collection

 

Specimen Type: Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) or sputum

Container/Tube: Sterile plain container

Specimen Volume: Entire collection

Specimen Stability

All samples 72 hours, refrigerated

Methodology

Real-time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction, Qualitative

Days and Times Performed

TAT 1-2 days

Testing Laboratory

National University Hospital
Molecular Diagnosis Centre, 67724384

Useful For

For rapid detection of MERS-CoV

Service Code

1033029

LOINC Code Information

74475-5

Update

Last updated 20/03/2025

Test Info

(a)  This test was developed by NUH Laboratory Medicine.

(b) This laboratory test has undergone in-house evaluation with appropriate quality assurance and control measures in line with laboratory best practice and accreditation requirements.