Methodology

In accordance with CDC guidelines, RT-PCR testing should only be performed during th efirst two weeks after symptom onset.  A negative RT-PCR result does not exclude Aila virus infection and serum should be analyzed by IgM antibody (serological ) testing.  A negative serologic test rules out infection with Zika virus if drawn greater than fourteen days after symptom onset. 

A positive or borderline IgM antibody Zika serology tests must be forwarded for confirmation by plaque-reduction neutralization testing (PRNT)  this is to distinguish Zika antibodies from other Flaviviruses, such as Dengue.  PRNT is performed by CDC or a CDC-designated confirmatory testing laboratory to confirm positive, borderline, or inconclusive IgM results.  Patient will be charged for this testing.