External quality assessment for the molecular detection of MERS-CoV in China.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In May 2015, an imported case of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection occurred in China, so rapid and reliable diagnosis of suspected cases was necessary.

Objectives

An external quality assessment (EQA) program for the molecular detection of MERS-CoV was organized by the National Center for Clinical Laboratories (NCCL).

Study design

MS2 virus-like particles (VLPs) encapsulating specific RNA sequences of MERS-CoV were prepared as positive specimens. The assessment panel, which comprised of three negative and seven positive samples with different concentrations of VLPs, was distributed to 56 laboratories from 16 provinces, municipalities, or autonomous regions for molecular detection.

Results

Among the received data sets, t

SUBMITTER: Zhang L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7106428 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature