Genital swab specimen in 1-3 mL viral transport media (VTM):
Please note for patients with suspected Monkeypox infection, samples should be collected in viral inactivation buffer. The eNAT specimen collection and transport device has been validated for this purpose and can be supplied by our team at Enfer Medical or sourced through local distributors.
The test for Varicella-zoster DNA offered by Enfer Medical is carried out by real-time multiplexed PCR, as part of an extended genital ulcer panel. This test is CE-IVD certified.
| Viruses | Bacteria |
| Herpes Simplex Virus 1 | Treponema pallidum |
| Herpes Simplex Virus 2 | |
| Varicella Zoster Virus | |
For clients using the Enfer Medical Client Portal, the Enfer Medical Patient Request Form (PRF) will be generated when you have completed your “Test Request” within the portal linked below.
Please note that samples suspected of containing high risk pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis or Monkeypox virus should be clearly identified on the form and packed separately from other samples.
Results are available next working day.
This assay is available seven days a week.
The packaging/preparation of samples for delivery to the laboratory are required to be in adherence to all national regulations for the safe transport of biological materials. HSE guidance can be reviewed HERE.
There are specific packaging instructions and labelling requirements requiring triple packaging including:
Further information on the packaging/preparation of samples for delivery to the laboratory is contained within the Enfer Medical Laboratory User Manual which clients are provided with.
Samples must be tested within 1 week of collection and stored at 2-8°C.
In addition to the packaging of samples, the transport/delivery of clinical samples to the laboratory is required to be in adherence to all national regulations for the safe transport of biological materials. Enfer Medical provides a fully compliant logistics service, aligned with clients’ testing requirements.
Prompt transport of specimens:
To ensure prompt testing of samples and release of results within the published test turnaround times, samples should arrive to the laboratory by 18:00. Test turnaround time is measured from receipt of the sample at the laboratory until the time the authorised results are reported to users.
In rare cases specimens may not be suitable for testing on arrival to the laboratory. In that case the sample will be rejected at the receipt stage and the service user will be notified immediately and an explanation as to why the sample could not be processed will be provided. Reasons why samples cannot be processed include but are not limited to:
