SARS=CoV-2
Tests:SARS-CoV-2
Overview | |
|---|---|
| Department | Microbiology – Molecular |
| Test Code | TCOV |
| Synonyms | COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2 Novel Coronavirus 2019-nCov |
| Turnaround Time | 2 – 24 hours from receipt
Results may be delayed out of routine business hours. Urgent requests will be prioritised |
Specimen Requirements | |
| Specimen Type | Nasopharyngeal swab in VTM (Viral transport medium) |
| Specimen Transportation | ASAP to Laboratory |
| Pediatric Requirements | Paediatric nasopharyngeal swab in VTM (Viral transport medium) |
Aliquot Requirements | |
| Sample Type | |
| Minimum Volume | |
| Aliquot Transportation | If there is a delay in getting sample to the laboratory, please store sample chilled (2 - 8 degrees Celsius) |
| Stability – Add test | |
Clinical Information | |
| Reference Intervals | Results will be reported as Novel Coronavirus RNA PCR DETECTED or NOT Detected.
Ct values are available on request. Specimens that fail for technical reasons will be tested by another platform or a repeat sample requested, this will mean a delay in results |
| Test Method | Real-time RT-PCR test on the GeneXpert analyser for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Note if a “QUAD” swab is requested then Influenza A + B, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 are tested. |
| Advanced Notice | Not required |
| Patient Preparation | To minimise inhibition in the assay, please ensure the patients blow their nose prior to taking a nasopharyngeal swab. |
Comments | |
| Influenza A/B and RSV, Full Respiratory Multiplex and Bordetella pertussis PCR may be carried out on the same nasopharyngeal swab.
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