Mumps – Diagnostic – PCR

Timing of Specimen Collection

Buccal swab – should be collected up to nine days from date of symptom onset.

Throat swab – should be taken up to nine days from symptom onset

Urine – should be collected up to 14 days following symptom onset

Storage and Transport

Label the specimen with the patient’s full name, date of collection and one other unique identifier such as the patient’s date of birth or Health Card Number. Failure to provide this information may result in rejection or testing delay.

Special Instructions

Place specimen in biohazard bag and seal. Specimens should be stored at 2-8°C following collection and shipped to PHO’s laboratory on ice packs.

Test Frequency and Turnaround Time (TAT)

Mumps PCR is performed on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

TAT for RT-PCR result is up to 3 days.

Samples that are RT-PCR positive may be cultured to facilitate mumps genotyping surveillance. Virus Culture is observed for a minimum of 17 days; samples that are positive can be observed at any point during this period.

TAT for a virus culture result is up to 18 days after receipt.

TAT will vary during the winter months. 

Positive samples are sent to National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) in Winnipeg for genotyping.

Mumps PCR testing is not routinely performed after hours. In special circumstance where after hours/weekend testing may be warranted please contact the after hour’s emergency duty officer at 416-605-3113.

RT-PCR testing is performed on mumps specimens.

Positive PCR specimens may be cultured using traditional virus culture to facilitate genotyping surveillance.

Algorithm

Samples that are positive for mumps are sent to NML, Winnipeg for further testing (genotyping).

Reporting

Results are reported to the ordering physician or health care provider as indicated on the requisition.

Specimens that are positive for Mumps are reported to the Medical Officer of Health as per Health Protection and Promotion Act.