To:
Clinical Directors, All requestors of molecular lab tests
From:
Chris Mansell Clinical Microbiologist
Helen Moore Haematopathologist
Stephen Du Toit Chemical Pathologist
Date:
4 Feb 2022
Subject:
Limited Availability of Molecular Testing Due To COVID
The laboratory is prioritising SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) PCR testing over routine work during February and March. Objectives:
Phase 1 Contain and eliminate. Detect as many cases as possible for contact tracing and isolation. Enable potentially exposed staff to remain at work.
Phase 2 Reduce transmission. Detect enough cases to significantly slow the epidemic, especially among vulnerable groups. Prevent transmission within Waikato hospitals. Enable potentially exposed staff to remain at work.
Antigen and other testing will also be used, but we need a vigorous, high volume COVID PCR programme during this time.
PCR testing for CSF, Influenza/RSV and Measles will continue to be performed on an urgent basis.
Leptospirosis, Legionella and Pneumocystis will be performed with clinical microbiologist approval.
Selected tests such as monitoring for chronic infection (HBV, HIV, CMV) will be tested every 2-4 weeks.
The majority of testing, particularly for conditions which can be managed without a laboratory result can unfortunately not be performed regularly and the turnaround time may be >4 weeks.
