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Oregon Health Authority

Lab Test Details

Yersinia pestis Culture and Confirm

Updated

5/2/2023

Search Terms Y. pestis; Plague Culture; bubonic; septicemic; pneumonic
How to Order

On the General Microbiology Test Request Form (OHA0060), in the “Select Agent Testing” section, check the “Yersinia pestis” box.

Notify the OSPHL General Microbiology testing section before sending at 503-693-4100.

Availability

All clients

Performed
Daily on regular business days
Time to Reporting
Within 4 working days after receipt of specimen.

The OSPHL prioritizes this testing whenever possible; results may be released sooner than the published turnaround time.
Public Health Data
De-identified data from Y. pestis testing are shared with the Laboratory Response Network (LRN) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as part of surveillance.
CPT Code

87077, 87801



Specimen Collection Details

Collection
Actively growing isolated organism, in pure culture, on an agar slant or plate media.

In rare circumstances, the OSPHL can accept primary clinical specimens. Consult with the OSPHL if this is needed.
Optimal Volume

N/A

Minimum Volume

N/A

Handling
Seal sample(s) in primary and secondary containers. Store specimens at refrigerated temperatures (2-8°C) or room temperatures (20-25°C) pending transport. Do not freeze.
Transport

Package specimens to maintain refrigerated or room temperatures during transport. Do not freeze.

Follow Department of Transportation shipping requirements.

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

Original material submitted for testing is retained for 7 calendar days after receipt at the laboratory.

Please refer to the ASM Sentinel Lab Guidelines. Samples may be forwarded to the CDC for further characterization if needed. For additional information or assistance, please contact the laboratory at 503-693-4100.

Method Details

Methodology
LRN reference procedures for biochemical identification and PCR
Performance
Specifications

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

Change Log

5/2/2023
Added Public Health Data section; Edited Methodology; Corrected URL in Comments
3/15/2021

Reviewed; no changes made