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Public Health Regional Laboratory: Testing Services

R-Mix (viral respiratory panel) Testing

This testing service is available to health providers and clinics in Sonoma, Mendocino, and Lake counties.

Testing Method

R-mix is a shell vial culture method. Specimens are introduced to a specialized tissue that will support the growth and detection of 8 different respiratory viruses. Poly and monoclonal antibodies are used to identify the viruses present. Infection with multiple viruses is possible.

Specimens

Clinical samples should be taken early, preferably within 3 days of symptoms onset. A combination of nasopharyngeal and throat swabs is recommended. These swabs should be placed together into a viral transport medium (eagles MEM or equivalent).

Viral transport medium is available from the Sonoma County Public Health Laboratory upon request.

Specimen Collection

A nasopharyngeal and throat swab combined into the same transport medium is recommended. Nasopharyngeal aspirates and washes are also good provided they are diluted with equal volumes of transport medium.

One sample is sufficient to culture and identify all of the respiratory viruses.

Specimen Storage

Specimens should be stored at 4 degrees Celsius. Specimens may also be frozen if you expect a significant delay in transport.

Specimen Transport

Specimens must be shipped without delay and kept in a cooler to maintain 4 degrees Celsius. Specimens may be dropped off by courier at the laboratory during normal business hours.

Testing Results

R-mix cultures grow in 24 to 48 hours. Most results are available 48 hours after innoculation. If a virus is present, specific fluorescent monoclonal antibodies will be used to identify the virus. The following viruses can be detected and identified:

• Influenza A
• Influenza B
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Adenovirus
• Parainfluenza 1
• Parainfluenza 2
• Parainfluenza 3
• Metapneumovirus (MPV)

Molecular testing can be ordered for smear positive samples.

Specimen Submission Forms

Use the Monster form for submission.

Cost

Please call for current pricing.