Chapter 23 - RNA extraction techniques of different body fluids for Zika virus: Blood, genitourinary specimens, saliva, and other relevant fluids

Authors: Shannon E. Ronca, Bonnie E. Gulas-Wroblewski, Rebecca B. Kairis, and Kristy O. Murray

Molecular detection of Zika virus (ZIKV) contributes to efficacious diagnosis and epidemiological investigation. Here, we review the methods of viral detection for various body fluids. We comprehensively outline the recommended methods for viral RNA extraction from body fluids, most of which require alterations to manufacturer instructions to maximize RNA recovery. Although current agency-approved ZIKV diagnostic guidelines rely on serum alone, sampling of multiple body fluid types significantly elevates the sensitivity of testing, with genitourinary, whole blood, and cerebrospinal fluids offering longer windows for detection.