Test Overview
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Diagnosis of gastrointestinal disease (diarrhea or vomiting) caused by norovirus genogroups 1 and 2.
Negative
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
A negative result does not exclude norovirus infection.
Test Details
2 - 6 days
- Norwalk Virus, Stool
- FNLV
- Norwalk-Like Virus (NLV)
Specimen Requirements
Collect fresh random stool specimen. Add stool specimen to transport vial until liquid reaches fill line within 1 hour. Emulsify specimen thoroughly in transport fluid. If necessary, place a urine bag on the patient to prevent urine contamination.
Acceptable specimens are stool sent in Stool Culture transport (orange cap) (Cary Blair) or Para-Pak Culture and Sensitivity Media. Store and send at room temperature. If an outbreak of norovirus is suspected, specimens should be sent to the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS) for testing. Contact the MDHHS Bureau of Epidemiology at 517-335-8165 to obtain testing approval and necessary instructions prior to sending samples. Note that specimens sent to MDHHS should be stored refrigerated. Mayo specimens should be maintained at room temp.
Additional Information
Test sent to Mayo Medical Laboratories. If an outbreak of norovirus is suspected, specimens should be sent to the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS) for testing. Contact the MDHHS Bureau of Epidemiology at 517-335-8165 to obtain testing approval and necessary instructions prior to sending samples.