qPCR Testing

Real time qPCR is a rapid molecular method used to detect and quantitate Legionella pneumophila and Legionella species in potable and non-potable water.

If Legionella DNA is present it will be amplified and detected using fluorescence tagged to the Legionella gene. The concentration is compared to a standard curve and results are calculated and reported as low, moderate and high GU – Genomic Units. Genomic Units cannot be directly correlated to CFU because PCR reports live Legionella , dead Legionella and non-culturable Legionella .

Advantages:

• Outbreak investigations
• 6-48 hours turnaround time
• No confirmation needed
• Smaller sample size – 120 mL
• Potable and Non-Potable water