Testing Indications
Herpes B virus testing is only considered following human exposure to a macaque. Infection with Herpes B virus is extremely rare in humans; however, when it does occur, the infection can result in severe neurologic impairment or fatal encephalomyelitis if the patient is not treated soon after exposure.
Testing for Herpes B virus requires prior approval by the PHO Laboratory. Prior to submission - ideally after a physician has seen the patient but before specimens are collected - contact PHO’s laboratory's Customer Service Centre at 416-235-6556/1-877-604-4567 or the After-Hours Emergency Duty Officer at 416-605-3113.
Specimens from patients suspected to have Herpes B virus require shipping under the Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP). Submitters should ensure that a Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) certified individual is available to ship the specimens. The PHO Laboratory will assist in facilitation of the ERAP process during the shipment.
Entire content available on: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/laboratory-services/test-information-index/b-virus-reference-serology
