The Aptima® SARS-CoV-2
assay is a nucleic acid amplification in vitro diagnostic test intended for the qualitative detection of
RNA from SARS-CoV-2 isolated and purified from upper respiratory specimens.
MCHS Laboratory Summary on Aptima® SARS-COV-2 Assay
The performance characteristics of the Aptima SARS-CoV-2 assay for nasal collected specimen, were determined by the manufacturer, and granted an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the FDA for this specimen type.
Appropriate collection technique is a critical variable for best test performance.
Negative results do not preclude SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be used as the sole basis for patient management decisions. Negative results must be combined with clinical observations, patient history, and epidemiological information.
Detection of Genetic Variants of SARS-COV-2
Several variant strains of SARS-COV-2 have recently emerged. Test manufacturers, CDC and the WSLH are constantly evaluating assay ability to detect variant strains and regularly share updates with clinical laboratories nationwide. Currently, all recognized variant strains are being detected by our testing methods. The reported test results will not, however, differentiate between the ancestral pandemic strain and that of a SARS-COV-2 variant strain. Further genetic characterization by whole genome sequencing is required to identify which variant is present.
Marshfield Labs Partnership with WSLH on Surveillance for Genetic Variants of SARS-COV-2
Wisconsin Department of Public Health, WSLH and partner laboratories are conducting active surveillance for novel and variant SARS-COV-2 strains using whole genome sequencing. Marshfield Labs is supporting this surveillance effort by selecting positive specimens from geographically dispersed Wisconsin locations, hospitalized patients, vaccine break-through cases, and re-infected patients for surveillance sequencing. Marshfield Clinic Research Institute will perform the sequencing surveillance and report their results to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (WDHS).
Note that sequencing results will not be reported to the Provider or the patient. Sequencing is performed strictly for public health surveillance purposes and is not meant to advise patient care.