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Medical information Clinical review pending

Infection Testing

MERS Middle East Respiratory Syndrome UpEORF1a ORF1b Multiplex Detection and Differentiation RNA Detection Qualitative Test

Detects the MERS virus RNA using Real Time PCR technology. This test helps diagnose Middle East Respiratory Syndrome in individuals with symptoms or exposure risk.

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
Sputum, Throat and nasal swabs in viral transport medium, Lung tissues, Cell cultures, Respiratory swab, Endotracheal aspirate material, Serum, stool, and feces.
Results
Results are typically available within 36-48 hours. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
Sign a consent document and provide relevant clinical history regarding MERS exposure or symptoms before the test.
Test priceKSh 23,120

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 MERS Middle East Respiratory Syndrome UpEORF1a ORF1b Multiplex Detection and Differentiation 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.

  • ✓Individuals with respiratory symptoms like fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.
  • ✓People with recent travel history to MERS-affected regions.
  • ✓Patients with close contact to confirmed MERS cases.
  • ✓Healthcare workers potentially exposed to MERS.
  • ✓Diagnosis confirmation in suspected cases.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test is used to detect the presence of the MERS virus RNA in patient samples, aiding in the diagnosis of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome.
The MERS Middle East Respiratory Syndrome UpEORF1a ORF1b Multiplex Detection and Differentiation RNA Detection Qualitative Test is a diagnostic tool used to identify the presence of the MERS virus. This test uses advanced Real Time PCR technology to provide accurate results for managing this viral infection. It specifically detects the RNA of the MERS virus, focusing on the UpEORF1a and ORF1b regions. Identifying these genetic markers helps healthcare providers confirm a MERS diagnosis in individuals with relevant symptoms or exposure history. Taking this test allows for early and accurate diagnosis, enabling timely treatment and informed decisions regarding care and isolation. It also contributes to public health efforts in controlling the spread of MERS.
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 →
PreparationSign a consent document and provide relevant clinical history regarding MERS exposure or symptoms before the test.
SampleSputum, Throat and nasal swabs in viral transport medium, Lung tissues, Cell cultures, Respiratory swab, Endotracheal aspirate material, Serum, stool, and feces.
MethodologyReal Time PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) detection of MERS virus RNA.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects the presence of MERS virus RNA. A negative result does not completely rule out infection, especially if the sample was collected early in the illness or improperly. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
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

This test detects the genetic material (RNA) of the MERS virus, helping to diagnose Middle East Respiratory Syndrome.
Individuals with respiratory symptoms, recent travel to affected areas, or close contact with confirmed cases should consider this test.
Samples can include sputum, swabs (throat, nasal, respiratory), lung tissue, and other bodily fluids as specified in the requirements.
Results are typically available within 36-48 hours. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
A positive result indicates the presence of the MERS virus RNA in the sample. Discuss the implications with your doctor.
You can book the test by calling or WhatsApping +254711564616. Ensure you sign the consent form and provide clinical history.
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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