Effective today (Monday, June 1, 2015), the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Microbiology and Molecular Pathology Laboratory is modifying the cutoff time for receipt of samples to noon to obtain same-day results for the Respiratory Virus PCR (Epic code RVPCR) and Influenza A/B panel PCR (Epic code INPCR).

As a general reminder, there are two PCR-based tests for influenza viruses available.  Ordering Influenza A/B Panel, PCR incurs a smaller patient charge if other respiratory viruses are not of clinical or epidemiological concern.

Respiratory Virus PCR (influenza) (Epic LAB7366 or RVPCR) tests for eight respiratory viruses: Influenza A (including H1N1); influenza B; parainfluenza viruses 1, 2, and 3; adenovirus; respiratory syncytial virus (RSV); and human metapneumovirus.

Influenza A/B Panel, PCR (Epic LAB7455 or INPCR) tests for influenza A (including H1N1) and B viruses.

This change is to accommodate a reduction in test requests as influenza virus, RSV, and other respiratory virus’ prevalence have returned to baseline.

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