DEDICATED molecular specimens are required for blood and swab requests.

Preferred specimen: NPA – 0.5 mL

Alternative specimens: Bronchoalveoloar Lavage (BAL), Bronchial Washings (BW), Endotracheal Aspirate (ETA) Nose or Throat swab using Copan eSwab Mini Tip FLOQSwab (orange cap), Urine, CSF, EDTA whole blood

Note: If a swab larger than the Copan eSwab Mini Tip FLOQSwab (orange cap) is required, please consider using the Red Top Dry FLOQSwab - 552C.

Measles is a notifiable infection and suspected cases must be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on 1300 651 160 (24 hours)

Routine Testing of Measles Nucleic Acid Detection (RT-PCR)
Measles performed daily at VIDRL (Mon - Fri)

Urgent (after hours) Measles Nucleic Acid Detection (RT-PCR) testing at VIDRL

Clinicians:
1. Until 31^st of May 2025, authorisation by DHS is not required 

2. Requesting Clinician must indicate the appropriate contact person and details (mobile/landline) for communication of VIDRL results on the EPIC order/request form

Laboratory Staff:

1. Ensure all after hours Measles Nucleic Acid Detection (PCR) requests are checked for urgency status

2. Urgent out of hours testing must be approved by the On-Call Microbiologist (available via the switchboard). If approved:

• Request that VIDRL phone POSITIVE results to the RCH On-Call Microbiologist (via the RCH switchboard).
• Arrange courier and specimen delivery to the specimen delivery box located on the Grattan St face of the Doherty Institute (after hours and on weekends). Transport at room temperature.

Monday to Friday sent in the morning - SAME DAY TESTING