Ordering Guidance

This test is not intended for medical-legal use.

For specimens collected less than 14 days post-symptom onset or possible Zika virus exposure, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for Zika virus (ZIKV) on serum and urine to exclude a false-negative Zika virus IgM result is recommended. These are available as RZIKU / Zika Virus, PCR, Molecular Detection, Random, Urine and RZIKS / Zika Virus, PCR, Molecular Detection, Serum.

Additional Testing Requirements

This is a screening test for Zika virus. As required by your local health department, confirmatory testing of a presumptive positive result may be necessary.

Due to similar clinical presentation and cross reactivity, testing for IgM-class antibodies to dengue virus, concurrently with Zika virus IgM testing, is recommended, order DENVP / Dengue Virus Antibody/Antigen Panel, Serum.

Necessary Information

Three answers are required for order entry questions. The only acceptable answers are Yes or No.

If ordering electronically, record at order entry.

If not ordering electronically, provide the answers to the following questions with the specimen:

1. Could the patient be pregnant?

2. Has the patient traveled to or is a resident of a Zika endemic region?

3. Does the patient currently have or recently had Zika symptoms?

Specimen Required

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Serum gel

Acceptable: Red top

Specimen Volume: 2.5 mL