Meningococcal infection of the conjunctiva is considered an indication for public health action because of the high immediate risk of invasive disease. Other sites e.g. throat, may also require public health follow-up on a case-by-case basis, as determined by the local medical officer of health
If a result is required in order to inform public health or clinical decision making, please contact the laboratory at ipl@esr.cri.nz
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Area |
Health Science |
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Lab name |
Meningococcal Reference Laboratory |
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Lab location |
Kenepuru Science Centre, Porirua |
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Test name |
Neisseria meningitidis isolate characterisation |
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Organisms |
Neisseria meningitidis |
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Requested for surveillance |
yes |
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Notice required |
no |
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Sample requirements |
Pure viable culture |
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Media requirements |
Chocolate agar |
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Pre-transport requirements |
Ambient temperature |
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Transport requirements |
Ambient temperature within 24 hours |
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Unacceptable sample types |
Mixed culture, non-viable culture |
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How results reported |
Grouping and PorA results from notified cases are reported to the referring laboratory and notified electronically to EpiSurv. |
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Referral link |