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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Listeria Monocytogenes RNA Detection Qualitative Test

Detects the presence of Listeria monocytogenes RNA to diagnose Listeriosis, a serious infection. This test uses Real-Time PCR technology and is important for high-risk groups like pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Synovial fluid, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), serum, animal meat, amniotic fluid, faecal blood. Confirm specific sample type required with the laboratory before collection.
Results
Confirm turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is typically required for this test. However, inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking. Follow any specific instructions provided by the laboratory or your doctor.
Test priceKSh 11,016

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Listeria Monocytogenes RNA Detection Qualitative Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Suspected Listeriosis in high-risk individuals (pregnant women, newborns, elderly, immunocompromised).
  • ✓Unexplained fever or flu-like symptoms in high-risk groups.
  • ✓Gastrointestinal illness potentially linked to contaminated food.
  • ✓Investigation of potential foodborne outbreaks.
  • ✓Testing of amniotic fluid in cases of suspected congenital infection.
  • ✓Testing of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or synovial fluid for suspected invasive Listeriosis.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps healthcare providers diagnose Listeriosis by detecting the presence of Listeria monocytogenes RNA in patient samples or food products. Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment, which is critical for managing this potentially serious infection, especially in vulnerable populations.
The Listeria Monocytogenes RNA Detection Qualitative Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, which causes the infection known as Listeriosis. This infection can be particularly severe for certain groups, including pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and preventing serious complications.

This test specifically looks for the genetic material (RNA) of Listeria monocytogenes in various samples. It utilizes Real-Time PCR technology, known for its accuracy and speed in detecting pathogens.

If you are in a high-risk group or experiencing symptoms potentially related to Listeriosis, discuss this test with your healthcare provider.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is typically required for this test. However, inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking. Follow any specific instructions provided by the laboratory or your doctor.
SampleSynovial fluid, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), serum, animal meat, amniotic fluid, faecal blood. Confirm specific sample type required with the laboratory before collection.
MethodologyReal-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). This molecular method amplifies and detects specific RNA sequences unique to Listeria monocytogenes.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects the presence of Listeria monocytogenes RNA. A negative result does not completely rule out infection, especially if the sample was collected late in the illness or if the bacterial load is low. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other laboratory tests. This test does not identify antibiotic resistance.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. It can cause severe illness, especially in pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Pregnant women, newborns, individuals over 65, and those with compromised immune systems (due to conditions like cancer, diabetes, or HIV/AIDS) are at higher risk for severe Listeriosis.
Symptoms can vary but often include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Pregnant women may experience only flu-like symptoms, but the infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature delivery.
Listeriosis is typically treated with antibiotics. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important, especially for high-risk individuals.
A positive result indicates that RNA from Listeria monocytogenes was detected in the sample, suggesting an active infection. Your doctor will interpret this result in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
You can book the Listeria Monocytogenes RNA Detection Qualitative Test by calling or WhatsApping us at +254711564616. Please consult your doctor first to determine if this test is appropriate for you.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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