Detection of antibodies against Rift Valley Fever (RVF) virus by ELISA

Detection of antibodies against Rift Valley Fever (RVF) virus by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay.

Serum, or paired serum (preferred) – acute and convalescent. Minimum sample 0.5 mL.

Collect in serum separator tubes (SST), can submit as aliquots in sterile 1.5-2.0 mL tube.

Store samples refrigerated or frozen until shipped for testing. Ship frozen samples on dry ice, and refrigerated samples on wet ice

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

Fever and travel to Rift Valley Fever virus endemic areas or contact to travellers from these areas.

Completed Special Pathogens requisition including sender name, address and telephone number. Patient information including name or identifier, date of birth, and all relevant patient history including clinical diagnosis, underlying diseases, exposure risk and travel history. Indicate type of specimen collected and all specimen information. Select all required tests. If possible, attach lab results that have already been done at local or provincial laboratories.

All patient history must be included; sample without adequate patient history to justify testing are subject to rejection. Contact Special Pathogens prior to submission of sample to ensure appropriate shipping documentation is generated.

For diagnosis of Rift Valley Fever virus infection to be confirmed, one or more of the following diagnostic markers must be positive: (i) presence of Rift Valley Fever virus-specific antibodies, (ii) presence of Rift Valley Fever virus RNA by PCR, and (iii) isolation of Rift Valley Fever virus.

Initial results within 48 hours.