Poliovirus

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Detection of poliovirus (poliomyelitis)
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Virology
Specimen Type	○ Stool (paired)

Other Information

○ Two stool specimens should be collected at least 48 hours apart. Ideally, these samples should be collected within 14 days after onset.
○ Testing for Campylobacter species should also be performed if Guillain-Barré syndrome is suspected

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Stool: sterile container (2 x 2 grams)

Collection Requirements

Stool
○ Pass stool into a clean, dry pan or container mounted on the toilet. Collect approximately 1 gram of fecal material. Transport to the laboratory immediately after collection.

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL to NML

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 28 days after receipt at NML.

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4614

Approval Required

YES

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container and outer biohazard specimen bag
with printed electronic laboratory order sticker. Place specimens in biohazard bag, seal

○ Specimens should be transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory ASAP after collection at room temperature (20-25˚C).

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