Proof of Cure, Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (SHIGA)  

 
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 of NPHL Test Request Form (completed in its 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: Proof of Cure, Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli
  • Pre-approval needed from state or local health department
  • Send documented approval to NPHL@unmc.edu or call 402-559-9444
  • NUlirt Order: SHIGA
   
Synonym: Proof of cure, Shigatoxin testing, E. coli O157:H7, Non O157  
Method: Qualitative Enzyme Immunoassay  
Availability: Daily  
Specimen:
  • Stool
  • Pure Isolate
 
Collection Device:
  • Stool specimens should be collected in Cary Blair or Enteric Plus transport media according to manufacturer's instructions
    • If fresh stool is received, it should be placed into transport media within 2 hours of collection
    • Ratio of stool to Enteric Plus is 2:15 (0.5 mL stool to 3.75 mL Enteric Plus liquid media)
  • Isolates should be on a plate or slant
  • Test subject to CLIA regulations and requires 2 patient identifiers on specimen container and requisition forms
 
Volume: 10 mL in transport media  
Storage/Transport:
  • For shipping of isolates, see Category A shipping instructions
  • For shipping of stool specimens, see Category B shipping instructions
  • Specimen Packaging & Shipping - NPHL
  • Seal tubes with Parafilm™ or tape and place in biohazard bag with absorbent material
  • NUlirt packing list or appropriate paperwork (completed in its entirety) must accompany specimens
 
Unacceptable:
  • Leaking specimen
  • Mixed isolate
  • Stool contaminated with urine
 
Specimen Stability: Stool stable at 2-8 °C up to 4 days  
Comments: Test performed at Nebraska Medicine  
Revised: 10/24/2025 
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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