Service description
Laboratory of water microbiology analyses the occurrence of pathogenic viruses in water and environmental samples as a service for clients, for example:
- in connection with a suspected waterborne outbreak
- to investigate a water-related problem
- identify microbiological threats
- ensure the quality of water
The client takes and delivers the water samples to water microbiology laboratory in Kuopio.
Viruses analysed and methods
We analyse the following pathogenic viruses in water samples: Adenovirus, Norovirus, Rotavirus, Sapovirus and Hepatitis A virus.
Sample processing
- Sample processing and nucleic acid extraction follow the same general principles:
- For drinking and surface water: filtration through a positively charged filter; pre‑filtration if needed.
- Elution of viruses from the filter into a high‑pH buffer.
- Concentration of large‑volume (DEUF) samples using polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation.
- Concentration of wastewater samples using PEG precipitation or ultracentrifugation.
- Extraction of nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) from the concentrates.
- Detection and quantification of target viruses using PCR: Real‑Time PCR (qPCR) for DNA viruses and reverse‑transcription PCR (RT‑qPCR) for RNA viruses.
The methods are not accredited.
Viruses and methods
| Virus | Nucleic acid | PCR method |
| Adenovirus | DNA | qPCR |
| Norovirus | RNA | RT-qPCR |
| Rotavirus | RNA | RT-qPCR |
| Sapovirus | RNA | T-qPCR |
| Hepatiitis A | RNA | RT-qPCR |
Who we provide the service for
THL analyses the occurrence of pathogenic virus in water samples as a service for customers, such
as municipalities and waterworks.
What you can expect from us
Results are reported as soon as they are ready, typically within 1–14 days from the start of the analysis. The test report and invoice are delivered electronically approximately two weeks after the final results are ready.
Pricing
The customer pays both the shipping costs and the analysis costs. Billing information must be provided to THL when placing the analysis order using the order form. The order form must be completed and submitted to the laboratory before the analysis can begin. THL sends the invoice after the test report has been delivered. VAT 25.5% is added to the prices.
| Adenovirus | € 166.30 (VAT 0%) |
| Norovirus | € 179.58 (VAT 0%) |
| Rotavirus | € 179.58 (VAT 0%) |
| Sapovirus | € 179.58 (VAT 0%) |
| Hepatitis-A-virus | € 179.58 (VAT 0%) |
| Large‑volume sampling package (DEUF, materials and handling) | € 167.00 € (VAT 0%) |
How to use the service and contact us
- Always arrange sample shipment in advance and inform the laboratory of the expected arrival time in Kuopio.
- Send samples as express parcels so that they arrive the morning after sampling.
- The sender pays both freight and delivery.
Contact details: [email protected]
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