Molecular Detection of Cowpox Virus

Amplification of orthopoxvirus specific genome.

Lesion or crust fluid/material. Minimum sample 0.5 mL.

Collect lesion or crust material in sterile 1.5-2.0 mL tube.

Store samples in refrigerator or frozen until being shipped for testing. Ship frozen specimens on dry ice and refrigerated specimens 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.

Presence of orthopoxvirus papules or lesions.

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.

For diagnosis of orthopoxvirus infection be confirmed, one or more of the following diagnostic markers must be positive: (i) presence of orthopoxvirus DNA by PCR, (ii) isolation of orthopoxvirus.

14 calander days.