Testing Frequently Asked Questions

The DSHS Laboratory offers both serologic and molecular tests for measles:

• Real-time RT-PCR to detect the presence of measles virus RNA
• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect IgG antibodies to measles virus in human sera

Measles is an immediately notifiable condition. If you suspect measles, please notify your local or regional health department immediately.

For PCR testing, collect swab specimens up to 10 days after rash onset. Use dacron or rayon swabs with plastic shafts. Do not use cotton swabs with wooden shafts. The material in cotton and wood will interfere with the PCR process. Real-time RT-PCR testing is the most sensitive test for identifying whether a person is infected with the measles virus. 

For IgM serologic testing, collect serum specimen three or more days after rash onset.

• Throat swabs are preferred for PCR testing.
• Nasopharyngeal swabs or oral swabs are also acceptable for PCR.
  • All swabs should be submitted in 1 mL–2 mL of Universal Transport Media (UTM) or Viral Transport Media (VTM).
• The laboratory accepts serum specimens for serologic (ELISA) testing.
  • Minimum required volume of serum is 200 µL, but more is preferred.

New submitters can set up a submitter account by downloading a Submitter Identification (ID) Number Request Form, available on the DSHS website at Laboratory Testing Services Manual - Forms and Laboratory Fee Schedule. Complete all applicable fields and email the form to labinfo@dshs.texas.gov or fax it to 512-776-7533.

A Lab Reporting team member will create a new submitter account for your facility and provide a master copy of the submission form you will need to submit measles specimens to the Laboratory.

Yes. You can sign up for the DSHS Laboratory’s Lab Online/Web Portal to access test results quickly. You must have a DSHS submitter account to enroll for web portal access. The DSHS Lab Reporting Group can onboard new submitters to the online web portal when creating a new submitter account. Existing submitters may also request access. Each facility must designate a facility administrator during the web portal sign up process.

Visit Remote Data Systems for more information on signing up for web portal access.

For swab specimens:

• Store and ship swabs cold between 2°C and 8°C if they will arrive at the laboratory within 48 hours of collection.
• Freeze swabs at -70°C if they will arrive at the laboratory more than 48 hours after collection.

For serum specimens:

• Store and ship specimens cold between 2°C and 8°C if specimens will arrive at the laboratory less than 48 hours after collection time.
• Store and ship frozen at -20°C or colder if the specimens will arrive at the laboratory more than 48 hours after collection.
• NOTE: Never freeze serum in separator tubes.

Please note:

• Do not ship specimens for Sunday or holiday delivery.
  The laboratory will reject specimens that arrive out of temperature range.
• Ship via overnight courier (UPS, FedEx, etc.) with the earliest delivery option. Do not ship via USPS.
• Specimens older than 48 hours that are received defrosted/cold are classified as unsatisfactory and will not be tested.  

Refer to the DSHS Laboratory Measles Specimen and Submission Guidance Job Aid.

• Two business days for PCR testing.
• Two business days for IgG serology testing.

Measles testing fees, per the 2025 DSHS Fee Schedule are:

• Measles Real Time PCR $ 137.16
• Measles, IgG $ 23.09

In certain circumstances, measles testing fees may be waived; please discuss with your local or regional public health department.