- Test Method
- Real-time TaqMan PCR targeting the measles virus nucleoprotein (N) gene.
- Specimen Required
- Optimal sampling timeframe:
Highest yield within 1-3 days of rash onset. Sensitivity diminishes after 10-14 days
May remain detectable at up to 21 days (urine)
Preferred specimens:
Dry flocked swab (nasopharyngeal/throat) , optimally in viral transport media (VTM)
Urine (first pass)
Nasopharyngeal aspirate, saliva, endotracheal aspirate, bronchioalveolar lavage/washings
N.B. concurrent measles serology is advised
Accepted specimens:
Blood (ACD, EDTA, Gel Tube, Whole), plasma (ACD, EDTA)
Cerebrospinal fluid
Virus isolate, nucleic acid extract
Testing of less common specimen types (biopsied tissues, skin scrapings, paraffin embedded tissues, bone marrow, fluid, non-human specimens) should be discussed with the VIDRL registrar
Specimens NOT suitable
Swab of rash/skin
Swabs with transport media optimised for bacterial sampling (e.g. Stuart’s, Amies, charcoal)
- Spec Type Min
- 200uL (VTM/UTM, blood)
- When Tested
- On request. Typical clinical indications - Suspicion of acute infection including Koplik spots, typical morbilliform rash, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis - Suspected measles vaccine breakthrough - Pneumonia, encephalitis, particularly with exposure history - Please note: requests for measles PCR should be discussed with the relevant public health unit at time of sampling
- Turnaround Time
- Next business day. Samples received and processed prior to 8am may be available on the same day - Urgent same day (business hours) testing for samples arriving later than 8am available upon discussion with local public health units, with subsequent contact to the VIDRL registrar or the Laboratory Manager On Call (LMOC) via the VIDRL switchboard on +61 3 9342 9379 - Urgent after hours testing may be requested by the Department of Health (central) for outbreak investigation with approval obtained by local public health units. This is available 24/7 upon contacting the LMOC on 0438 599 439 (calls only)
- Reference Ranges
- 3-45 Ct
- Units of Measurement
- Ct
- Related Tests
- Other tests: measles vaccine real-time TaqMan PCR, measles genotyping , measles serology - see VIDRL Urgent Testing Instructions
- Billing Advice
- Non-rebatable
- Contact
- 03 9342 9628 (Virus Identification laboratory)
