(MERS) Middle Easter Respiratory Syndrome (MERSC)  

 
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: (MERS) Middle Easter Respiratory Syndrome
  • Pre-approval needed from state or local health department and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  • Contact NPHL emergency pater (402) 888-5588 before sending specimen
  • NULirt order: MERSC
 
Synonym: Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome, MERS, MERS-CoV  
Method:
  • CDC LRN methods
 
Availability:
  • Monday through Friday
  • Turnaround time 12 hours
 
Specimen:
  • Nasopharyngeal swab
  • Oropharyngeal swab
  • Sputum
  • Lower respiratory tract aspirates or washes
 
Collection Device:
  • Test subject to CLIA regulations and requires 2 patient identifiers on container and requisition forms
 
Volume: Minimum of 0.5 mL  
Storage/Transport:  
Unacceptable:
  • Leaking container
  • Inappropriate specimen type
  • Insufficient volume
  • Improper storage
 
Specimen Stability:
  • Stable at 2-8°C for 72 hours
  • Stable frozen for 1 month
 
Reference Interval:  
Reportable Disease:  
Comments:
  • Contact NPHL emergency pager before sending specimen (402) 888-5588
 
Revised: 6/20/2025 
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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