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: |
Measles Virus RT-PCR or Genotyping
- Pre-approval needed from state or local health department, unless submitting as patient pay
- Send documented approval to NPHL@unmc.edu or call (402) 559-9444
- NUlirt order: MEASLE
|
| Synonym: |
Measles detection, Measles molecular, Rubeola, VPD, Vaccine preventable disease, Measles vaccine, Genotype A |
| Method: |
RT-PCR |
| Availability: |
- Test performed Monday - Friday
- Turnaround time 1 day
|
| Specimen: |
- Nasopharyngeal aspirate or swab
- Urine
- Oropharyngeal (OP or throat)
- Anterior nasal swab
|
| Collection Device: |
- Store swabs/aspirates in 2 mL viral transport media or universal transport media
- Test subject to CLIA regulations and requires 2 patient identifiers on container and requisition forms
|
| Volume: |
1 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
- NUlirt packing list or appropriate paperwork (completed in entirety) must accompany specimens
|
| Unacceptable: |
- Incorrect storage
- Leaking container
- Inappropriate specimen type
- Insufficient volume
|
| Specimen Stability: |
- Stable at ambient air 15°-25° C up to 24 hours
- Stable at 4 °C up to 7 days
- Store frozen at -70°C after 7 days
|
| Comments: |
- Genotyping at Minnesota Public Health Laboratory will be performed on all PCR positive specimens unless otherwise indicated as a part of a larger outbreak
- Measles vaccine-specific PCR available as appropriate
|
| 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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