Specific detection of 2019-nCoV, SARS-CoV2, novel coronavirus, and influenza A, flu A, influenza B, flu B

Qualitative nucleic acid amplified real time RT-PCR (RT-PCR) assay

Test performed Monday – Friday; Turn-around-time 24-48h

Nasopharyngeal swab, Nasal Swab

Viral Transport Media  (VTM, UTM, VCM or M4), Saline
Specimens should be collected only on mini-tipped swabs with a synthetic tip (such as polyester or Dacron®) with aluminum or plastic shafts. Do not use calcium alginate swabs or swabs with wooden shafts, as they may contain substances that inactivate some viruses and inhibit PCR testing. Sealed with Parafilm™ or tape.

Specimen Labeling: Test subject to CLIA regulations and required 2 patient identifiers on specimen container and requisition forms

1-3 mL viral transport media

Prior to and during shipment: Refrigerate 2-8°C for up to 72h after collection. Ship as soon as possible.

Shipping instructions, including specimen-handling requirements during transport: All screw-top tubes must be sealed with Parafilm™ or tape.  

Place specimen inside leak proof secondary container (biohazard bag and if transporting by air, use Tyvek™ Envelope) with adsorbent material. The secondary container must be packed inside an approved Category B shipping container filled with frozen gel-packs to keep specimen refrigerated. Position NUlirt packing list or NPHL Test Order form between secondary container and box lid. Seal with tape.  Label outer box as UN3373 Category B, Biological Substance. Transport by NPHL ground courier. If courier not available, ship by FedEx, UPS, or USPS (1st Class, Priority or Express Mail). Follow appropriate DOT/IATA Regulation Guidelines.  For assistance, call NPHL State Training Coordinator at (402) 559-3590.  
See instructions and shipping address: http://nphl.org/

NUlirt packing list or appropriate paperwork (completed in entirety) must accompany specimens.

• Specimens not kept at 2-8°C (≤3 days) or frozen at -20°C or below.
• Inappropriate specimen type.
• Insufficient specimen volume.
• Swabs submitted with calcium alginate or cotton tips with wooden shafts are not acceptable.

Stable at Refrigerated 2-8°C < 72hr; Frozen -20°C  >72h, stable frozen for 30 days

Negative for 2019-nCoV, SARS-CoV 2, Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus

Report positive CoVID-19 results immediately to local or state health department. Refer to Nebraska DHHS Title 173, Communicable Diseases.

Pre-approval needed from state or local health department.  Send approval to NPHL@unmc.edu or call (402) 559-9444.

NUlirt packing list or NPHL Test Order Form (completed in entirety) must accompany the specimen.