A Service of the Hamilton Regional Laboratory
Laboratory Test Information
Committed to Quality
The HRLMP is committed to providing high quality laboratory results for our clients.
As one of the largest integrated laboratory medicine programs in Canada we strive to produce the right results the first time on every sample we receive.
Test Name:
Respiratory Virus PCR, Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL)
Alternate Name(s): Flu, Influenza, FRI, Coronavirus, COVID-19, RSV, Metapneumovirus, Parainfluenza, Rhinovirus, Enterovirus, Seasonal Coronavirus
Requisition Form: Download requisition form for: R_708112 (2025-12-09) - LRC Microbiology Requisition - Update - Fillable.pdf
Specimen Requirement: Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)
bronchial wash
Specimen Handling Instructions:
Ship at 4-8ºC in sterile container.
Critical Value: Influenza A,
Influenza B
COVID-19
Turnaround Time: 24 hours
Interpretive Comments: One or more of the following viruses is detected:
COVID-19
Influenza A,
Influenza B,
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV),
Parainfluenza 1 or 3,
Human Metapneumovirus,
Adenovirus
Rhinovirus/Enterovirus (not differentiated)
Seasonal Coronavirus (not differentiated)
Additional Information: Cases of Influenza A or B and COVID-19 will be reported to the Medical Officer of Health.
LIS Mnemonic: Dovetale: Respiratory virus PCR
Method of Analysis: Real Time Multiplex Taqman RT-PCR
Test was Last Updated: 6/2/2026
Testing Laboratory: Molecular Microbiology
Testing Site: SJHH