Pathlab has reported BNP levels using the Triage Method and using EDTA plasma as the preferred sample type. The current reference interval is 0-100 ng/L. From 23 December 2024, the current BNP method will be replaced by NT-proBNP. This method is more specific than BNP, as NT-proBNP has a longer half-life and is less influenced by factors like obesity or kidney function.

The following testing criteria should apply during periods of high pertussis activity. For any local outbreaks, a testing strategy should be determined in conjunction with the local public health service.

AIR service desk will maintain limited support during their normal hours through the summer break, except for public holidays. They will be closed on 25 and 26 December and 1 and 2 January 2025.

In November, Te Whatu Ora announced funding for the primary and community sector to support the placement of 200 new graduate registered nurses (RN) into employment.

Pathlab has reviewed Hepatitis B serology requesting. Due to the range of serological assays that can be requested for this infection, this can be a potentially confusing area for both requestors and the laboratory receiving the requests. With this in mind, Pathlab has put together some brief guidance.

Following a detection of cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza/HPAI (also commonly known as avian flu or bird flu) subtype H7N6 in chickens on a poultry farm in Otago, Te Whatu Ora has published a public health advisory with an update on the disease, the health response underway, and guidance for clinicians.

Effective immediately, Pathlab phlebotomists are not able to provide instructions or facilities for the collection of rectal swabs, STI swabs or STI urine specimen, or genital swabs.

Funding for Hiberix and Varivax will cease from 1 December 2024. The vaccines have been replaced by Act-HIB and Varilrix respectively. Practices should have stock of the new vaccines and should have already made the swap to these. If you have old stock remaining on 1 December, it needs to be returned to Propharma using usual processes.

Pathlab is seeing an increase in the volume of Histology requests in the lead up to Christmas. The turnaround time for results has increased as a result of this demand.

A measles case identified in Auckland had recently returned from Southeast Asia. Whilst infectious, the case visited three healthcare settings and a local Four Square on Waiheke Island, prior to being advised to isolate. All known close contacts have been contacted, and a small number are in quarantine. While the risk of transmission to the wider community is considered low, the National Public Health Service is asking healthcare professionals to please remain vigilant and take precautions.