Test Directory

Measles Virus PCR

Containers - Adult

Molecular Sample Solution (inactivating) (MSS) - Red topped Tube
Molecular Sample Solution (inactivating) (MSS)
Volume Range

Throat swab

SterileUniversal20ml.jpg
20ml Sterile Universal Container
Volume Range

Urine taken into Sterile Universal Container

Containers - Child

Molecular Sample Solution (inactivating) (MSS) - Red topped Tube
Molecular Sample Solution (inactivating) (MSS)
Volume Range

Throat swab

SterileUniversal20ml.jpg
20ml Sterile Universal Container
Volume Range

​Urine taken into Sterile Universal Container

Laboratory Site

RIE
51 Little France Crescent
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
Telephone (Virology): Microbiology/Virology Office: 0131 536 3373 (option 1)

Transport arrangements

Inter-site van shuttle service, GP van service, External hospital van service, Couriers, Hospital porter collection (refer to collection times posted in wards / departments), Hospital Pneumatic Tube System (PTS)

Sample storage arrangements

Samples should be transported to the lab promptly; if there is a delay please store at 2-8 oC.

Special instructions for collection

​Clinical samples must be collected into leak-proof containers and placed into a sealed bag with absorbent material. Patient samples must be individually packaged and not mixed with other patient samples. Any appropriate hazard labelling should be clearly visible on the sample bag / sample.

How to request

Use appropriate TRAK or ICE barcode labels which include Patient Identifier Number (CHI), Forename, Surname, Date of Birth, Gender and Location of patient (hospital and ward or primary care centre). Measles PCR can’t be specifically requested in TRAK or ICE. For throat swabs please order Viral Respiratory PCR; for urine samples please order Virus Detection; for both clearly write that measles testing is required. Use Virology Request Form only if TRAK or ICE ordering system is unavailable.

Availability

Weekdays 08.30 - 17.00

Weekends 9.00 - 16.00

Anticipated turnaround

1 day

What happens if the result is positive or abnormal

Positive results will be communicated promptly to the requestor (usually by phone).

Static information/disclaimer

​False negative results may occur for a variety of reasons including: inappropriate timing of sample collection, inappropriate sample type, inappropriate sample storage and presence of virus below the detectable limit of the assay. New and emerging variants may also occur which may not be detected by specific assays. Towards the limit of detection of an assay sampling variation will result in lower reproducibility. Haemolysed or lipaemic samples can also cause interference with assay results.

General additional information

Suspected cases of measles need prompt discussion with the Duty Virologist. Samples received without prior discussion will be stored for one week and not tested. 


To contact duty virology:

Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00 - call 0131 536 3373, option 2. If you are unable to get through, please consider emailing (see below) rather than holding.

               
Outwith these hours, the Virology Consultant/ Registrar on call can be contacted via switchboard on 0131 536 1000. Between 22:00-07:00 please email (see below).
 

Emails should be sent to loth.virologyadvice@nhs.scot. Please supply: 

requester contact details/ a phone number in case we need to discuss; patient details; clinical presentation; MMR status; travel/contact history

If the case warrants testing Virology will contact East Health Protection Team.