Viral gastroenteritis is inflammation of stomach and intestines. Illness is highly contagious and can spread quickly. Some demographic groups are at higher risk than others. Definitive diagnosis is not always indicated as this is a self limiting illness. ICE order comms is set up to direct requesting. Rotavirus and Norovirus are the most common viral cause.
Container / Tube
Brown top universal with spoon.
Collection Conditions
Faecal samples, 500 ul of fluid stool or 0.5 g of solid sample. Testing can also be carried out on vomitus but faeces is the preferred sample.
Availability
Mon to Fri.
Send to
Microbiology Department, Centre for Laboratory Medicine, St James’s University Hospital, Beckett Street, Ä¢¹½tvÊÓƵ, LS9 7TF.
Turnaround Time
3 days.
Additional Information
Multiplex PCR is first line for detection of Norovirus and Rotavirus. A further multiplex PCR for detection of Astrovirus, Sapovirus and Adenovirus is carried out on all immunocompromised / suppressed patients and those under 5 years old. External users requiring extended testing should specifically request this. Extended testing will be carried out on outbreak samples.
ID
3668