VZV, Varicella zoster virus – genotyping

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Molecular genotyping of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) to differentiate between wild-type and vaccine strains
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Virology
Specimen Type	○ VZV positive whole blood, plasma, CSF, lesion swab, fluid specimen ○ VZV viral isolate from viral culture

Other Information

○ Immunization with attenuated VZV vaccine within the last month or when virus strain reactivation is suspected
○ Consult medical microbiologist prior to ordering/requesting

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

NML (VZV Vaccine Strain Differentiation) ????

Routine Turnaround Time

○ 7 days

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4639

Approval Required

YES

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ The specimen will be referred to the National Microbiology Laboratory for testing