Genetic Testing

Norwalk Virus Testing

CBI tests for the presence of Norovirus using PCR and DNA sequence analysis. The results can confirm an outbreak of Norovirus or confirm that the decontamination of the area has been effective.

A Case Study
CBI worked with Allegheny (Pennsylvania) County Health Officials to test the efficacy of decontamination for an 800-student, K-12 school in Coraopolis, PA. The school had been closed on March 23, 2004 after many children were absent -- or became ill during classes -- with vomiting and diarrhea. About 180 people connected to the school came down with the illness. A norovirus, a common cause of such outbreaks, was suspected.

After the school was disinfected, CBI tested the “hot spots” and confirmed the virus was destroyed.

Link to FIL