Flu Testing
During flu season (October - April), rapid direct test for Influenza type A and type B are performed to better manage patient’s disease. The turnaround time for this test is one hour. Early diagnosis can lead to early intervention by FDA approved drugs for influenza viruses.

Legionella Testing

Persons suspected to be suffering with Legionnaire’s disease should be asked to submit the following specimens:

• Urine for Legionella urinary antigen test
• Respiratory specimen (bronchial wash, trans tracheal wash, bronchio alveolar lavage or sputum) for culture and direct fluorescent test
• blood for Legionella IgG/IgM test

Respiratory specimens for culture isolation are preferred. Urine for Legionella Urinary antigen test should always be accompanied by blood for IgG/IgM test.

TB Testing Upgrades
New methodologies for automating detection and isolation of TB and other mycobacteria are being evaluated for implementation. This will allow for processing larger number of specimens with less labor. It will help minimize the use and disposal of radioactive materials that are part of current methodologies.

Chlamydia/Gonorrhea Testing

Nucleic acid application technology for enhanced sensitivity and specificity for chlamydia and gonorrhea diagnosis has been implemented. Urine specimens from male and female patients can be submitted for the diagnosis of chlamydia and gonorrheal infections.