Beginning today, December 23, 2013, the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Microbiology laboratory will expand the testing schedule for influenza A (including H1N1) and B.  For all respiratory virus PCR testing, the cutoff time for receipt of a sample in the lab for a same-day result will therefore be moved to 2 PM.

There are two PCR-based tests for influenza viruses available.  Ordering INFLUENZA A/B PANEL PCR (LAB7455) incurs a smaller charge if other respiratory viruses are not of clinical or epidemiological concern.

RESPIRATORY VIRUS PCR (INFLUENZA) (LAB7366) tests for eight respiratory viruses: Influenza A (including H1N1), influenza B, parainfluenza viruses 1, 2, 3, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and human metapneumovirus.
Handbook entry: http://www.healthcare.uiowa.edu/path_handbook/handbook/test2904.html

INFLUENZA A/B PANEL PCR (LAB7455): Tests for influenza A (including H1N1) and B viruses.
Handbook entry: http://www.healthcare.uiowa.edu/path_handbook/handbook/test3093.html

Questions concerning this broadcast can be directed to Bradley Ford, MD, PhD, Associate Medical Director of Microbiology, (ext. 6-2990, bradley-ford-1@uiowa.edu).