Language Translation
Governor Mike Braun
  Close Menu

Listeria Testing

Listeria species Testing

Listeria Specimen Collection and Transport

No cost associated with this testing.

  1. Acceptable specimens:
    • Isolates on agar slants from sterile sources ONLY
  2. Isolates must be received at the lab above 0˚C.
  3. All specimens must arrive at the lab within 5 days of collection.

    Appropriate agar medium slant in tube with screw-cap tightened.

    Complete submission form on LimsNet and include a copy of the LimsNet coversheet with the sample.

    • Isolates WILL NOT be accepted unless properly entered into LimsNet.
    • Samples should be submitted under the Enterics group. Choose “other” for bacteria testing and write in Listeria.
    • Confirm the isolate container is appropriately labeled with 2 identifiers, such as the patient’s full name and DOB. Date of isolation, suspected species, and a unique identifier are also recommended.
    • Confirm the information on the container is identical to the information entered into LimsNet.

    Check expiration date of tube to ensure the product is acceptable and will continue to be acceptable once received at the IDOH Laboratory.

  1. Wrap the labeled specimen tube with absorbent material and place in the inner (primary) shipping canister.
  2. Place LimsNet submission cover page in outer container or in plastic bag to prevent contamination from specimen.
  3. Place the inner shipping canister and submission cover page into the outer (secondary) shipping canister.
  4. Affix a mailing label to the outer canister with a return address and appropriate postage.
  5. Specimens should be shipped to arrive at IDOH Monday through Friday. It is not recommended to ship specimens which will be in transit over the weekend or holiday.
  6. Ship to:
    Attn: Enterics Laboratory
    Indiana Department of Health Laboratory
    550 W 16th St Suite B Indianapolis, IN 46202
    317-921-5500

    7. Email: mhindenlang@health.in.gov

    Reporting Method: LimsNet
    TAT: 3-12 business days.
    Test Referral:  Isolates may be forwarded to the CDC or regional lab for additional testing. Projected TAT listed above does not account for time required for forwarded isolates.