The Virology Laboratory tests a wide range of patient specimens to detect the presence of viral antibodies and viral DNA/RNA. This includes HIV, hepatitis, influenza, SARS CoV-2 and chlamydia.

We work alongside the Infectious Diseases department and the Infection Prevention Control Team.

We have close links with the regional Health Protection Team for outbreak analysis.

The department aims to provide quality and timely diagnostic and advisory service to patients and service users within the Trust and local community.

• Monday to Friday, 8am to 4:30pm for routine work and telephone enquiries
• Saturday, 8am to 4:30pm for urgent enquiries only
• Sunday, 10am to 6pm for urgent enquiries only
• Bank holidays, 8am to 4:30pm for urgent enquiries only

• General Enquiries: 01482 623229
• Virology Laboratory Manager: 01482 624330
• Clinical Advice: 01482 622680

• General Virology Testing Information
• Viral Antibody Testing (Serology)
• Blood Borne Virus Antibody/Antigen and Molecular Testing
• Non Blood Borne Virus Molecular Virology Tests
• Molecular Testing – Chlamydia Trachomatis (SDA/NAAT)
• Category 4 virus / Viral Haemorrhagic Fever testing

• View Virology Turnaround Times

• Clinical Lead: Dr Kirstine Eastick
• Chief Biomedical Scientist and Virology Manager: Katie Kitchman

Some samples may be referred to other centres for further work or testing.