Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
Sputum BAL NPA Nose and Throat SwabUrgent SARS-CoV-2/FluA/FluB/RSV
Specimen Volume
Viral transport media. Minimum volume of 300uL for Sputum/BAL/ETA/NPASpecimen Transport
Sample should be sent to the laboratory as soon as possibleTurnaround Time
Within 24 Hours (routine) and 1hr15 (urgent) from receipt in laboratorySample Stability
If transport is delayed, sample can be refrigerated for up to 8 hoursGeneral Information
Please Note: For urgent testing, please send nose or nose/throat swabs in VTM, sputum, bronchoalveolar lavage, nasopharyngeal aspirate or endotracheal aspirate.
Please note: This assay is not currently UKAS accredited.
If you require urgent SARS-Cov-2 testing, please contact the laboratory extesion 13306 for an urgent priority number.
If you are unsure or require advice; contact the laboratory using extension number 16534 during normal working hours or via switchboard at other times.
Results: are communicated electronically to Bed Management Teams and Infection Control.
Information Sharing: If your sample needs to be referred or a notifiable disease is detected from your sample, your details and sample may be shared with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This is a legal requirement. The UKHSA is sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care.
Specifications
- EQA Status: Enrolled to UK NEQAS
- EQAS Scheme: Yes