Measles Testing Guidance for Patients Seen Outside of 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.
- Outside of Children's Mercy:
- Contact your state health department to request approval for testing
- MO: 573-751-6113 or 800-392-0272 (after hours)
- KS: 877-427-7317 (24/7), option 5
- Others: https://libraries.cste.org/after-hours-contact/
- Collect specimens (both PCR and IgM) according to guidance from the state on-call epidemiologist
- Send specimens with appropriate labeling and completed lab requisition and/or clinical assessment forms through your typical process
- See MO Courier Information
- Contact your state health department to request approval for testing
Note: urine testing for measles is available and may be requested by your health department