Respiratory Rapid Test – SARS-Cov-2, FluA, FluB, RSV

Diagnostic Use

For routine respiratory testing during Respiratory virus season.

Rapid screening using molecular PCR to identify key respiratory viruses during outbreaks.

In cases that clinically justify a wider selection of respiratory pathogens, further testing can be performed using our Respiratory virus multiplex assay. Please contact the laboratory directly on ext 80356 (Monday to Friday 0800-1700) or by stating clearly on original request: "FULL RESPIRATORY MULTIPLEX" with clear clinical details supporting testing. If clinical details are not supplied or do not meet set criteria, the extended panel will only be performed after discussion with and approval by a Microbiologist. Please refer to Additional Information section below for current testing algorithm details.

Department

Microbiology - Virology

Delphic Registration Code

RESP

Laboratory Handling

Test Adds

Add-ons can be made if an appropriate sample has already been received for other testing and clinical criteria are met. Please call Virology to discuss.

Synonyms

Flu-Rapid PCR -FluA,FluB, RSV
RSV-Rapid PCR -FluA,FluB,RSV
Influenza PCR
Covid
SARS-Cov-2
Flu
Resp
Respiratory screen

Turnaround Time

8 hours

Test Code

9550

Specimen Type

• Nasopharyngeal Swab

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Swab - Viral

Pre-testing Requirements

To minimise inhibition in the assay, please ensure the patients blow their nose prior to taking a nasopharyngeal swab

Additional Specimen Information

Samples should be taken as early as possible within the first 3-5 days after onset of symptoms.
For instructions on collection of respiratory specimens refer to the Instructions for Respiratory Viral Testing
For further details on inpatient algorithms for testing please access https://canterbury.communityheathpathways.org
See link to Swab Guide under Additional Information section below

Retention time for rapid respiratory samples is 3 weeks refrigerated and samples are stable within this timeframe. Beyond this period test additions cannot be performed.

Aliquot Instructions

Transport to Lab

Chilled (2 - 8 degrees Celsius)

Interpretation

Single or multiple viruses may be detected. All viruses will be reported. Results available immediately on HCS and ICNet
Assistance with interpretation is available from the Virology/Serology Service 0800 THE LAB extn 80354

Reference Intervals

Results reported as Detected or Not Detected for individual viruses tested.
Specimens that fail for technical reasons will be tested by another method, meaning results may be delayed.

Test Method

Molecular virology analysis of Flu A, Flu B and RSV viruses by rapid PCR technique.

Non-Funded Test Cost

$99.28 (Exclusive of GST)

Billing Code

5005

Add-on testing for Respiratory Virus Multiplex PCR is only performed if clinical criteria are met, please refer to https://www.chl.co.nz/test/respiratory-virus-multiplex-rt-pcr/

Extended testing is performed daily on routine weekdays. Urgent or weekend testing must be discussed with and approved by a Microbiologist.

Influenza subtyping must be discussed with and approved by a Microbiologist.

Resources

• Swab Guide
• Instructions for Respiratory Viral Testing
• Inpatient Respiratory Streaming Guide October 2024

Contact Information

Enquiry Form