Measles PCR and Serology (State Lab, requires approval)

Testing is performed at the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory

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Measles PCR & Serology

The Missouri State Public Health Laboratory will help determine what specimens should be collected on any individual patient (see Instructions section below.)

For PCR:

• If rash onset is within the last 72 hours, collect a nasopharyngeal swab in viral transport media. 
• If rash onset is between 4 and 10 days, collect a nasopharyngeal swab in viral transport media AND a urine sample in a sterile collection container. 

For serology testing:

• Collect at least 1 mL of blood in a gold-top Serum Separator Tube (SST).

1 mL for any blood and urine specimens. 

Before collecting and shipping specimens for Measles testing, please call DHSS at 573-751-6113 (during business hours) or 800-392-0272 (available 24/7). Note that before any specimen is sent for testing, DHSS staff must first be consulted. After consultation and determination that the patient meets the criteria for testing, you can contact the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory (MSPHL) at 573-751-3334 or 800-392-0272 if you have questions regarding collection and shipping prior to collecting the specimens. This will help ensure that proper specimens are obtained in the right quantity, and that they are packed and transported properly.

Specimens for PCR testing (NP swab and urine): Send refrigerated with frozen ice packs if specimens are expected to be received by the state lab within 10 days of collection. If specimens are not expected to reach state lab within 10 days, they should be frozen and shipped on dry ice.

Specimens for serology testing (serum): Send refrigerated with frozen ice packs if serum has been received within 48 hours of collection. If it has been longer than 48 hours since collection of the serum, pour off the serum and freeze it for transport on dry ice. 

PCR: Nasopharyngeal swabs and urine can be kept refrigerated for up to 10 days. If the specimens are not expected to reach state lab within 10 days, they should be frozen for shipping.

Serology: Serum can be stored for up to 48 hours refrigerated. After 48 hours, the serum should be separated off from the gold top and frozen. 

For PCR: Incorrect transport media or swab
For serology: Hemolyzed specimen, Icteric specimen, Lipemic specimen, Unidentified specimen, No name on specimen, Improper storage/transport of specimen

Monday through Friday during business hours. No weekend testing. 
Testing is performed the day of receipt at the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory.