Molecular detection and detection of antibodies against Jamestown Canyon and Snowshoe Hare viruses
Microbiology
Serology
○ Serum (paired serum 2-3 weeks apart for serology; PCR)
○ CSF (serology and PCR; CSF need to be paired with a serum sample)
Other Information
○ La Crosse virus is not present in Canada; it will not be tested by NML. ○ NML will not accept unpaired specimens. ○ PCR is not recommended for CSG viruses as it is not a sensitive test, unless collected within 5 days of neurological onset during active mosquito season.
○ Serum: Serum separator tubes or red top tube (5mL) ○ CSF: Sterile container (0.5 mL for serology, 0.25mL for PCR)
Serum: ○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood.
CSF: ○ Decontaminate skin, collect at least 0.5 mL of CSF for this test into a sterile container. Collect appropriate amount of CSF for each additional test requested (0.25 mL for PCR).
Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery
PHOL
○ Serology: 14 days after receipt by NML for ELISA, 28 days for PRNT ○ PCR: 14 days following ELISA
416-586-4800 extension 4464
NO
○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.
○ Specimens should be stored at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) and transported ASAP to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory after collection.
○ The specimen will be referred to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing. PHOL will refer the specimen to NML.