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Suspect mumps testing protocol

During the current mumps outbreak in the State of Iowa, the UHL has 
established the following testing protocol for evaluating patients 
suspected of having mumps: An oral or buccal swab specimen should be 
collected following parotid massage, placed in M4 transport medium and 
submitted on ice packs directly to the UHL.  A PCR test will be 
performed with provision of test results within 24-48 hours. Urine 
specimens should NOT be submitted as they will not be processed. Please 
submit a completed Non-respiratory Disease Test Request Form along 
with the swab specimen for mumps PCR analysis.

In addition, a 7-10 ml red-topped tube of blood may be submitted to the 
UHL for determination of mumps IgM.  This specimen may be submitted 
along with the swab specimenon ice packs or individually at ambient 
temperature. The IgM test result will also be available in 24-48 hours. 
Please submit a Serology Test Request Form along with the red-topped 
tube of blood. Mumps IgG testing will no longer be performed by the 
UHL.