Test Order Name - Ebola PCR
Synonym(s) - Ebola, Ebola Virus Detection, Sudan Ebolavirus
Methodology - BIOFIRE Global Fever Special Pathogens Panel
Acceptable Specimen Type(s) for Testing - Two (2) tubes of 4 milliliters each EDTA whole blood in a plastic (Not glass) blood collection tube
Transport / Collection Medium - All staff handling and packaging specimens must be trained on Category A shipping and training within the last 2 years. Package the specimens according to instructions for Biological Substance – Category A (UN2814) shipment. Untested specimens are not classified as Select Agents and must be shipped via FedEx with technical name “Infectious substance, affecting Humans (suspected Category A infectious substance)”
For packing and shipping please review this CDC recommended training: Packing and Shipping Dangerous Goods: What the Laboratory Staff Must Know. Appropriate training is specific to institution, and PHL recommends you review with your organizations internal compliance team to verify that this is the correct training.
Storage and Preservation of Specimen - 2° to 8°C / cold pack
Minimum Volume Required - Two (2) tubes of 4 milliliters each EDTA whole blood in a plastic (Not glass) blood collection tube.
Additional Collection Instructions - Prior approval is required to ship these samples for testing. If Ebola testing is requested for a patient under investigation, please contact the following for consultation prior to collecting specimens:
- SF Communicable Disease Team (628) 217-6100
Additional Required Information - See CDC Guidance for Collection, Transport and Submission of Specimens for Ebola Virus Testing for more information
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/EbolaVirusDisease.aspx
https://www.cdc.gov/ebola/index.html
Send Out? - Yes, this test is only performed at LRN-B laboratories (CDPH Viral Rickettsial Diseases Laboratory)
Turnaround Time - 2 business days from receipt
Requisition Form(s) - Requisition will be provided by the testing lab, once approval has been granted.
Limitations / Notes / Disclaimers - More information about the Ebola Real-Time RT-PCR Assay