Testing for Winter Viruses Now Available

The St. Louis Children’s Hospital (SLCH) virology laboratory is now offering rapid antigen testing for influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and molecular (PCR) testing for Norovirus.

Rapid antigen testing for RSV and influenza is available seven days a week, 24 hours a day during the peak season. The required specimen is either a nasopharyngeal (NP) swab in viral transport media, or NP wash or aspirate in sterile cup. Test results are available within one hour. Because rapid antigen tests are only 60 percent to 80 percent sensitive compared to the gold standards,fluorescent antibody stains or viral culture, it is recommended that a stain and culture be ordered to confirm negative rapid antigen results.

Additional rapid antigen testing information

Norovirus is associated with gastroenteritis in all ages, and tends to be more common during the winter months. Preliminary studies have shown that 15 to 20 percent of stools submitted for bacteriology culture during winter months were positive for Norovirus.

The PCR test detects Norovirus genotypes I and II. Testing can be performed on non-formed stools or rectal swab.

“As confirmed cases of viruses continue to rise, these test options offer quicker results,” says Stephanie Bledsoe, MT(ASCP), technical supervisor, virology/molecular virology laboratory at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. “Our goal is to expedite results so that our physicians can deliver safe and effective care as soon as possible.”

Weekly virus and microbiology testing data, as well as other important laboratory information, is located at Clinical Labs. This page can also be directly accessed from KIDDOs by clicking on the test tube icon on the KIDDOs toolbar.

For more information, contact Children’s Direct at 800.678.HELP (4357).