COVID-19: SARS-CoV-2 Detection, by Nucleic Acid Amplification

Influenza Screen and Sub-Typing Real-time (TaqMan®) RT-PCR
DataValue
Method Detection of SARS-CoV-2 genomic material by nucleic acid amplification
CPT Code
Test Scope

Testing for SARS-CoV-2 may be by real-time PCR or transcription mediated amplification
Preferred Specimen Nasopharyngeal Swab, nasal swab 
Specimen Container Screw-cap polypropylene viral transport tube (viral transport media), saline tube (glass or polypropylene), Aptima Multitest Collection Device
Specimen Identification Label tube with patient’s first and last name, DOB and date/time of collection.
Special Instructions
  • Indicate site of collection or source on requisition.
  • Include the date the sample was collected, date of onset of illness, a brief clinical description or the provisional diagnosis as well as any other pertinent clinical information on the requisition.
Shipping Requirements Store and transport refrigerated at 2-8° C within 3 days.
Sample Rejection Criteria
  • Swabs with calcium alginate, cotton tips or wooden shafts.
  • Specimen quantity not sufficient (QNS)
  • Specimen not refrigerated
  • Mislabeled/Unlabeled specimen
Turn-around-time 24-72 hours