Poliomyelitis: indications for serological testing
Updated 7 February 2022
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Background
The Virus Reference Department (VRD) houses the World Health Organization (WHO) National Polio Laboratory for the UK. In addition to the molecular detection and isolation of poliovirus, the laboratory performs serological assays to detect anti-poliovirus neutralising antibodies. This document provides clarification for service users on the indications for polio serological testing. Since June 2017, VRD has only processed referred samples that meet the approved indications for testing.
Approved indications for polio serological testing
Approved indications for polio serological testing are:
- diagnosis of poliovirus infection when the diagnosis cannot be established by molecular or culture-based methods, by comparing titres in acute and convalescent sera
- serological confirmation of poliovirus infection following detection of poliovirus using molecular and/or culture-based assays
- quantifying antibody levels in individuals who work in laboratories where there is deliberate handling of poliovirus
Note that requests for testing for any indications not mentioned here should be discussed with VRD before samples are submitted.
Excluded indications
Excluded indications, meaning that samples will not be processed, include:
- demonstrating an antibody response to polio vaccination to assist in the diagnosis of immunodeficiency states including, but not limited to, primary humoral immunodeficiencies (if required, antibody responses to other routine vaccines should be assessed)
- detecting antibodies or quantifying antibody levels in individuals travelling to an overseas area that has an active polio outbreak
Note that WHO International Health Regulations do not require proof of demonstrable antibody levels as evidence of vaccination or specific immunity, but written proof of polio vaccination given 4 weeks to 12 months before departure from the country. An International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) may be required on exit from an affected area.
Issued by: Virus Reference Department, National Infection Service, UK Health Security Agency.