The One Health-Rabies Laboratory at the University of Missouri holds a CLIA Certificate of Registration to perform human rabies serology for vaccine response monitoring. Human samples submitted for rabies antibody testing are analyzed using the Rapid Fluorescent Focus Inhibition Test (RFFIT) method. Results are typically available within 7–10 business days after sample receipt.
Test options and pricing
| Test | Result Type | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| RFFIT screen test | Qualitative result (<0.5 IU/mL or ≥0.5 IU/mL) | $47 |
| RFFIT endpoint test | Quantitative result (0.1 IU/mL–10.0 IU/mL) | $65 |
If a test type is not specified on the RFFIT submission form, samples will automatically be tested as an endpoint test and billed accordingly.
Sample requirements
- 0.5–2.0 mL of clear serum
- Unbreakable, leakproof tube
- Tube labeled with first and last name and/or identification number
Submission instructions
- Complete the RFFIT submission form.
- Label the sample tube.
- Confirm the requested test type.
- Package the sample in a leakproof container.
- Ship with a cold pack.
- Include all required paperwork.
Detailed submission instructions are available here. For questions about the pdf fillable form, contact us at 573-882-3646 or muvmdlrabies@missouri.edu
Shipping address
Mizzou VMDL Receiving
One Health-Rabies Section
901 East Campus Loop
Columbia, MO 65211
Electronic results will be sent to you via fax and/or email.
Interpretation RFFIT endpoint:
| Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| LESS THAN 0.1 IU/mL | Rabies antibody not detected or below level of quantitation. |
| Numerical value < 0.5 IU/mL | Rabies antibody detected below acceptable level. |
| Numerical value = 0.5–10 IU/mL | Rabies antibody detected at or above an acceptable level. *See below |
Interpretation RFFIT Screen:
| Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| < 0.5 IU/mL | Rabies antibody not detected or detected below acceptable level. |
| >/= 0.5 IU/mL | Rabies antibody detected at or above an acceptable level. *See below |
*For humans: A rabies virus neutralizing antibody (RVNA) result of 0.5 IU/mL or higher is considered an acceptable response to rabies vaccination per the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the World Health Organization recommendations. Results are confidential personal health information. All disclosures must be in accordance with HIPAA. Note: The symbol “>/=” means “greater than or equal to.”
The submitting clinic is responsible for payment.
International clients are required to complete payment before testing can proceed. If payment is not received within one week, the submission will be canceled.
Online payments (Credit card, debit card or web check)
Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, debit card and web check payments can be made online.
Please enter your name and account (or invoice) number, then click Start Payment Process.
Check (cheque) or money order
Checks and money orders should be made payable to Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory and may be included with the sample or mailed directly to:
Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory
P.O. Box 6023
Columbia, MO 65205
U.S.A.
Please do not send medical specimens to the P.O. box listed above.
Questions about billing?
Phone: 573-882-6811
Email: mucvmvmdlbusiness@missouri.edu
If payment is not received, an invoice will be sent to the submitting clinic.