Molecular Detection by PCR or RT-PCR

Molecular Detection by PCR or RT-PCR for Influenza C virus.

• Influenza

Respiratory specimens (nasopharygeal swab, throat swab, other). Volume required: 1-2 mL.

Use sterile swabs and swab nasal cavity, throat, etc. Place swabs in 2-3 mL viral transport medium.

Keep samples refrigerated until shipped for testing. Ship on dry ice.

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

For additional guidance on the transport of infectious substances in other languages, please click on the link below.

http://www.who.int/ihr/capacity-strengthening/infectious-substances/en/

Suspected or confirmed viral respiratory infection.

Completed requisition (current Molecular Diagnostic for Respiratory Viruses requisition form). Sender lab name, address, and telephone number must be included for samples to be processed. Also include identifier (sender lab number), patient date of birth, patient gender, type of specimen, and date collected. Under additional information, please include if possible/applicable: passage history, patient travel history, extent of influenza activity, and date of collection relative to antiviral use.

Authorization must be obtained for molecular detection by PCR or RT-PCR for Influenza virus. Please contact the Influenza and Respiratory Viruses laboratory by phone or email before sending specimens.

Nucleic acids are extracted from submitted respiratory specimens. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Reverse Transcriptase (RT) PCR with virus-specific primers is performed on extracted nucleic acids to determine the presence of viruses (using real-time detection or visual confirmation by gel electrophoresis of PCR products).

14 calendar days.

Pathogen Safety Data Sheets: Infectious Substances – Influenza virus (B and C)

Canadian Pandemic Influenza Preparedness: Planning Guidance for the Health Sector

Protocol for Microbiological Investigations of Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI)

Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) Case Definition

Flu (influenza): For health professionals

Laboratory-confirmed influenza (including novel influenza subtypes)

Emerging Respiratory Pathogens

Flu (influenza): Symptoms and treatment