Respiratory Virus Testing

Point of care testing

(RSV point of care testing not UKAS accredited)

Influenza and RSV Point of Care (PoC) testing is available in some emergency triage locations in season - e.g. JR ED, JR EAU, Churchill Haematology / Oncology Triage, Horton ED, Children's ED, and should be used as a first line when admitting patients with respiratory symptoms, alongside lateral flow testing for COVID-19.

Such tests should also be performed as routine on admission for those who are immunocompromised and/or being admitted to Haem/Onc/Transplant wards, even in the absence of respiratory symptoms.

Laboratory testing

The laboratory provides a 4 target PCR test which detects Influenza A, Influenza B and RSV and SARS CoV2 (COVID-19). This should be requested to confirm all PoC positives, and as a second line test for most patients where there is a clinical concern and PoC is negative.

An extended panel (BioFire FilmArray® Respiratory PCR) is restricted for use in certain indications, such as in immunocompromised patients and those admitted to adult or paediatric critical care units.

Sample type

• Nose and throat swab
• NPA
• BAL
  

Specimen requirements

Swabs are to be sent in universal transport medium (red or green top)

NPA and BAL to be sent in sterile universal container

Minimum volume

1ml

Frequency of test

Daily

Turnaround time

Routine respiratory virus PCR - < 24hrs

Urgent and extended PCR testing - < 4hrs

What to request on EPR

Respiratory virus (Influenza, RSV, COVID) PCR