Medical Microbiology Testing
The Medical Microbiology Laboratory supports infectious disease testing and technical expertise in the areas of Bacteriology, Blood Lead, Molecular Biology, Mycology, Mycobacteriology, Serology, Special Pathogens, and Virology.
Notice: The South Dakota Public Health Laboratory will be transitioning to our new facility the first week of June. Laboratory operations will continue during this time; however, some test results may experience minor delays. We appreciate your patience during this transition.
Medical Microbiology Service Manual
Quick Reference Guide for Sample Type and Shipping Conditions
Laboratory Fee Schedule Order Medical Testing Supplies Court-Ordered Testing
Please refer to our service manual for a complete list of tests offered, testing algorithms, and miscellaneous information about testing.
The South Dakota Public Health Laboratory discontinued Mycology testing effective March 1, 2026. If you would like assistance identifying alternative testing laboratories, please contact the SDPHL laboratory at 605-773-3368.
Hot Topics
Any hantavirus testing related to the recent cruise ship outbreak or associated travel history will be forwarded to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention with prior approval following consultation with the CDC Clinical Consultant Team.
For additional details, please call 605-773-3368.
Code: PCR
Method: PCR
Specimen: Throat, NP, or nasal swab in VTM
Turnaround: 1-5 Business Days
Transport: Ship at 2-8° C for up to 72 hours or frozen at <-70° C
Shipping: Ship as Category B. Specimens can be shipped using the SDPHL courier service; the courier can be reached at 605-366-3299.
Code: IAB
Method: RTPCR
Specimen: Throat swab, NP aspirate or swab, nasal wash, nasal swab
Turnaround: 3-5 business days
Transport: Ship at 2-8° C for up to 72 hours or frozen at <-70° C. Viral transport media preferred.
Shipping: Ship as Category B. Specimens can be shipped using the SDPHL courier service; the courier can be reached at 1-877-434-9366.
Mycobacteriology Testing
Submit primary and reference cultures for mycobacteria.
STI and Bloodborne Pathogen Testing
Test patient samples for STIs such as Chlamydia, Syphilis, Hepatitis, and HIV.
Serology Testing
Test patient samples for antibodies and antigens related to vaccination and disease status, such as Measles, Mumps, Rubella, West Nile, and Lyme disease.
Special Pathogen Testing
Special Pathogen Lab role, tested select agents, isolate sending instructions, and access to resources and training.
Virology & Molecular Testing
Submit patient influenza and other samples for viral PCR testing and molecular methods to rapidly identify infectious disease agents.
Medical Microbiology Resources
Quick links to laboratory resources.
Submission Forms
Find any medical and microbiology testing forms for influenza, monkeypox, COVID-19, and more.
Medical Laboratory Submission Form Influenza Sample Form MPox Lab Requisition SARS-CoV-2 Sequencing Surveillance Lab Requisition SARS-CoV-2 Lab Requisition and PUI Evaluation Form