All viral cultures
“Source” information is required by CAP and federal regulations. The source or anatomic site of the specimen submitted for culture determines the type(s) of virus isolated. Clinicians may also indicate specific virus(es) to include in the culture. The following are routinely isolated: Adenovirus, Cytomegalovirus, Enterovirus, Herpes simplex virus, Influenza A & B, Parainfluenza 1, 2, & 3, Respiratory syncytial virus, Varicella/Herpes zoster.
The following are non-routine, requiring specific request: Measles and Mumps. It is preferable to store and immediately transport specimens refrigerated. If delay is unavoidable and the specimen is collected in VCM or equivalent transport medium, storing and transporting at -70°C (dry ice) is acceptable for almost all viruses. If the transport medium used is not VCM or equivalent, do not freeze specimens for Varicella/Herpes zoster, RSV, Measles, or CMV. Whole blood or bone marrow are NOT transported in VCM or equivalent and cannot be frozen (see below).