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Respiratory Virus TestingState Public Health LaboratoryInfluenza TestingThe Missouri State Public Health Laboratory conducts yearly laboratory-based
viral influenza surveillance through a network of sentinel provider
sites to monitor influenza activity throughout the transmission
season. Requests for influenza testing from non-sentinel sites should
be made directly to the laboratory or the State Influenza Coordinator.
Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Routine testing
for influenza infection is NOT offered. Avian Influenza (H5N1) (updated 9/6/2006)Avian Influenza (H5N1) Laboratory Fact Sheet Laboratory Guidelines For Influenza Testing With The Presence Of Avian Influenza A H5N1 Avian Influenza Testing for suspect cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) are available from the MSPHL only if indicated after a case investigation has been initiated. Refer to the Department of Health and Senior Service's (DHSS) Pandemic Influenza website, the Health Update: Updated Interim Guidance for Lab Testing of Persons with Suspected Infection with Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus (6.20.06) and the Health Advisory - Avian Influenza and the Threat of an Influenza Pandemic (11.15.05) for instructions and to report any suspect case of avian influenza to DHSS. Note: primary point of contact is Eddie Hedrick, Emerging Infections Coordinator (573-522-8596/(800) 392-0272). The MSPHL has the capability to perform real-time RT-PCR testing for influenza and related respiratory viruses. These assays were developed by the CDC and are updated as changes in the circulating strains are found. Because the sensitivity of commercially available rapid diagnostic tests for influenza may not always be optimal, RT-PCR testing may be performed even if influenza rapid diagnostic testing is negative on patients meeting the clinical criteria for avian influenza infection. Highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) is classified as a select agent and must be worked with under stringent Biosafety Level (BSL) 3+ laboratory conditions. Therefore, respiratory virus cultures should not be performed in most clinical laboratories and such cultures should not be ordered for patients suspected of having H5N1 infection. Requests for SARS/Respiratory Virus collection kits (these kits
should be requested for SARS and all novel strains of influenza
including highly pathogenic avian influenza) should be directed
to the SPHL at 573-751-0633. Instructions for specimen collection
and transport may be found in the Refer to the CDC infection control precautions when collecting and handling laboratory specimens. Additional information is available at the CDC Avian Influenza website.
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