Test Code WNVS West Nile Virus, RNA, PCR, Molecular Detection, Serum
Specimen Required
Collection Container/Tube:
Preferred: Serum gel
Acceptable: Red top
Submission Container: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Centrifuge and aliquot the serum into a sterile container within 6 hours of collection.
2. Label specimen as serum.
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.
Useful For
Rapid testing for West Nile virus (WNV) RNA (lineage 1 and lineage 2) using serum specimens
An adjunctive test to serology for detection of early WNV infection (ie, first few days after symptom onset)
This assay should not be used for screening asymptomatic individuals and should only be used to test patients with signs and symptoms of WNV disease.
Testing Algorithm
The following algorithms are available in Special Instructions:
Special Instructions
Method Name
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Reporting Name
West Nile Virus RNA, PCR, SerumSpecimen Type
SerumSpecimen Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
---|---|---|---|
Serum | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days | |
Frozen | 7 days |
Reject Due To
Gross hemolysis | Reject |
Heat-inactivated specimen | Reject |
Reference Values
Negative
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
Report Available
Same day/1 to 5 daysPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test was developed, and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
87798
LOINC Code Information
Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
WNVS | West Nile Virus RNA, PCR, Serum | 32361-8 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
608436 | West Nile Virus RNA, PCR, Serum | 32361-8 |