Virology:

This section detects viruses by molecular methods.

• Respiratory virus screen (includes Influenza A (+ H1, H3 and 2009 H1N1 typing), influenza B, Adenovirus, RSV, Parainfluenza 1,2,3 & 4, Rhinovirus, Coronavirus, Bocavirus, and enterovirus)
• Meningitis screen: HSV-1, HSV-2, CMV, VZV, EBV, HHV6
• Viral Loads: HIV-1, HCV, CMV

Serology:

This section detects antibodies to viruses and bacteria, and viral antigens in serum/plasma using both manual and automated methods. Automated methods include:

• Abbott Architect (rubella, CMV, Toxoplasma, hepatitis A, B, C, Syphilis (all IgG and IgM), CMV Avidity HTLV-1/2, hepatitis C antibody, hepatitis B surface antigen and all markers and HIV (Ag/Ab).
• bioMérieux mini Vidas (Lymes, Measles IgG, Mumps IgG, EBV IgG/M, VZV IgG, HBsAg and HIV duo)
• Manual Methods include: Plate ELISA (VZV IgG, parvovirus IgG/M, HCV Ag/Ab, Mycoplasma), EIA card tests (HIV type 1 or 2, cryptococcal antigen)

Immunofluorescence tests (Pneumocystis (carinii) jirovecii)

Any tests not covered within the laboratory repertoire are sent to the relevant reference laboratories.

Virology BMSs are available in the laboratory:

08:30-18:00 Tuesday – Thursday
08:30 – 17:00 Monday & Friday
08:30 – 12:15 Saturday

Outside of these hours virology advice can be obtained from the on-call Consultant Microbiologist available through the hospital switchboard.