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: |
(MERS) Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome
- Contact NPHL emergency pager before sending specimen 402-888-5588
- Pre-approval needed from state or local health department and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- NULirt order: MERSC
|
| Synonym: |
Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome, MERS, MERS-CoV |
| Method: |
CDC Laboratory Response Network approved 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: |
- See Category B shipping instructions
- Specimen Packaging & Shipping - NPHL
- Seal tubes with Parafilm™ or tape and place in biohazard bag with absorbent material
- NPHL Test Request Form (completed in its entirety) must accompany specimens
|
| Unacceptable: |
- Leaking container
- Inappropriate specimen type
- Insufficient volume
- Improper storage
|
| Specimen Stability: |
- Stable at 2-8° C up to 72 hours
- Stable frozen -20°C for 1 month
|
| Comments: |
Contact the NPHL emergency pager before sending specimen 402-888-5588 |
| 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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