Hantavirus (Please notify laboratory if suspected)

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Molecular detection or detection of antibodies of Hantaan virus
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Virology
Specimen Type	○ Serum (serology or PCR) ○ Whole blood (PCR) ○ Lung tissue (PCR)

Other Information

○ Hantavirus results from NML are required before other PHO testing can be performed.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum: serum separator tube (clotted blood)
○ Whole blood: EDTA-blood tube (lavender top)
○ Lung tissue: sterile container OR formalin-fixed/paraffin-embedded block in sterile container

Collection Requirements

Whole blood/serum:
○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood.

Lung tissue
○ Collect 5-10 mm3 tissue (0,5 g) aseptically using surgical technique. Place in a clean, sterile container with a small amount of sterile saline to prevent drying.

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

28 days after receipt by PHOL

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4509

Approval Required

YES for molecular testing

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens should be stored and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) after collection

○ The specimen will be referred to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing.