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Test Menu Details

Ebola Zaire Virus, Real-Time RT-PCR

NOTICE: This assay does not detect Ebola Sudan Virus

Updated

10/31/2022 (reviewed 5/5/2023)

Search Terms
EVD; Ebolavirus; EBOV; Hemorrhagic fever; Zaire
How to Order

On the Virology/Immunology Test Request Form (OHA0042), in the “Molecular" section, check the “Other” box and write in "Ebola Virus."

AvailabilityWith State Acute and Communicable Disease Prevention Program (ACDP) approval only. Contact ACDP for approval at 971-673-1111 prior to specimen submission.
Performed

Daily on regular business days

Time to Reporting

Within 3 working days after receipt of specimen.

The OSPHL prioritizes this testing whenever possible; results may be released sooner than the published turnaround time.

CPT Code

87798



Specimen Collection Details

CollectionTesting for Ebola virus should not be performed unless the patient meets clinical and/or epidemiological criteria for testing suspect specimens. Contact ACDP for approval at 971-673-1111 prior to specimen submission.

Collect two whole blood specimens, preferably using a plastic EDTA specimen collection tube. Collect at least 4 mL into each tube.

Plastic collection tubes preserved with sodium polyanethol sulfonate, citrate, or clot activator are also acceptable.

Do not separate and remove serum or plasma from the primary collection container.
Do not use glass containers or heparinized collection tubes.

Urine is also acceptable for testing, but only when submitted with a paired whole blood specimen.

For additional information and facility instructions, refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guidance for Collection, Transport, and Submission of Specimens for Ebola Virus Testing.
Optimal Volume

Adult: 8 mL whole blood, 4 mL in each of two tubes.

Pediatric: 2 mL whole blood, 1 mL in each of two tubes.

Minimum Volume

Adult: 4 mL whole blood, 2 mL in each of two tubes.

Pediatric: 2 mL whole blood, 1 mL in each of two tubes.

Handling

Store specimens at refrigerated temperatures (2-8°C) pending transport.

If transport will be delayed, freeze specimens at or below -70ºC pending transport.

TransportTransport specimens with cold backs to maintain refrigerated temperatures (2-8ºC) during transit. Specimens  should be received at OSPHL within 3 calendar days of collection.

Transport frozen specimens on dry ice to maintain frozen temperatures during transit.
Rejection CriteriaSpecimens received more than 7 days after collection.

Specimens are subject to the requirements of the OSPHL Specimen Submission Policy (pdf).
Comments

Staff who collect specimens should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and should refer to Guidance on Personal Protective Equipment to be Used by Healthcare Workers During Management of Patients with Ebola Virus in U.S. Hospitals, Including Procedures for Putting On (Donning) and Removing (Doffing).

Of the two tubes submitted, one will be tested at OSPHL and one will be forwarded to CDC for additional testing and studies. Original material submitted for testing is retained for 7 calendar days after receipt at the laboratory.

Method Details

Methodology Real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR)
This assay has been cleared for use under a FDA Emergency Use Authorization.
Performance
Specifications

Method Performance Specifications determined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Please contact the CDC for specifications.

Change Log

5/5/2023
Reviewed, no revisions
10/31/2022Specify this assay detects Ebola Zaire and not Ebola Sudan
4/5/2021

New Test Menu Details Page