Enteric Virus Laboratory

Testing Services

Molecular assays using reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) are the most common method for detection of noroviruses. The Enteric Virus Laboratory currently uses a real-time RT-PCR assay for detection of norovirus, and confirms all positive specimens by nucleic acid sequencing. Sample types accepted by the laboratory include stool specimens from gastroenteritis outbreaks and biopsy specimens from immunocompromised individuals, particularly intestinal transplant recipients. Investigations are in progress towards the detection of noroviruses in other biological, food, and environmental specimen types and the development of additional assays for the detection of other intestinal viral pathogens.