Measles Testing Guidance for Patients Tested at Children's Mercy

PCR testing has the highest yield in the first 3 days from the onset of rash and decreases over time. The yield of IgM testing increases 3 or more days after the onset of the rash.
Obtain all laboratory tests in the patient’s room.
For Children's Mercy physicians or nurse practitioners, all locations (including those in Kansas):
- Contact the Missouri Department of Health to request approval for testing:
  - MO Dept. of Health: 573-751-6113 or 800-392-0272 (after hours)
  - During the call, obtain the name of the state test approver to enter the order
- Order a Ref Lab Misc Test- Measles RT-PCR in Cerner, specimen type/source: nasopharyngeal (NP) or oropharyngeal (OP)
- Order Measles (Rubeola) Antibodies, IgM- Use lab collection instructions
- Collect NP or OP swab in Universal Transport Media (UTM)
- Send NP/OP swab and serum sample with appropriate labeling through the typical processes
- Email LabSendouts@cmh.edu with the Patient’s name, MRN, DOB, and name of state test approver
  - The Send Out lab will fill out the MO state lab test requisition form