Norovirus PCR

Pathology category

Microbiology - Virology

Code

NORL

Referral code

Request form

ICE request form. Please include all relevant clinical details, including the date of symptom onset.

Test information

This is a nucleic acid amplification test for the detection of norovirus genotypes 1 and 2, which are most commonly implicated in outbreaks. Testing is not usually helpful in sporadic cases as infection is usually self-limiting. Norovirus testing is only performed at the discretion of the infection control team. Please do NOT send vomit specimens as they will not be tested. Tests performed in a UKAS Accredited Medical Laboratory No. 8873.

Guidelines

Pre-analytical

Please isolate cases of suspected norovirus into single rooms where possible. Do not wait for the outcome of testing: contact the infection control team as soon as possible should an outbreak be suspected.

If a delay occurs in delivering the sample to the laboratory, please refrigerate.

Reference range

Tube type

Tube type info

Sterile stool container

Special requirements

Staff are reminded to take a pot home from their nearest clinical area and a blue microbiology form (so that they have it at home should they ever experience symptoms). Formed stool can be tested for Norovirus, when only vomiting symptoms present

If they become symptomatic then they should complete a blue microbiology form and submit their sample to the lab directly or they can drop the sample directly at their GP (helpful if they are acutely unwell and cannot travel)

The staff member should notify OH that they have submitted a sample and we will contact them directly with the results and offer advice on return to work etc.

Confirmed Norovirus cases are considered “medically exempt”, which means that the mandatory 48 hour absence from work following resolution of symptoms is not counted as sick leave.

Minimum volume

1ml

Assay frequency

Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

24 hours

TAT Inpatient

1 - 7 days

TAT GP/Outpatient

1 - 7 days

Referral lab