Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Rotavirus is the most common virus causing gastroenteritis in children in the UK. Prior to the introduction of childhood rotavirus vaccination in August 2014 almost every child in the UK has had a rotavirus infection before the age of 5 years. Universal vaccine has dramatically reduced the incidence of diarrhoea due to rotavirus. Norovirus and adenovirus 40/41 infections are now more likely causes of acute viral gastroenteritis in young children. Adults can become infected with rotavirus but the infection is usually very mild. In the UK, rotavirus infection is seasonal. The virus is more common during the winter season from November to April.
Adenovirus serotypes 40 and 41 cause acute gastroenteritis primarily in children. Symptoms may include fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, and last for approximately 10 days. Respiratory symptoms can occur in some individuals.
Specimen container paediatric:
Scoop faeces in to Universal using integrated spoon.
Specimen container adult:
Scoop faeces in to Universal using integrated spoon.
Minimum volume paediatric:
Quarter full (Universal)
Minimum volume adult:
Quarter full (Universal)
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test:
Possible up to 3 days.
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable.
Reference ranges:
N/A
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced documents:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations (SMI S 7)
Other Info:
N/A