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. This serum neutralization assay measures the amount of rabies virus neutralizing antibodies (RVNA) available to neutralize rabies virus in a serum sample. We provide two different RFFIT resulting methods. See explanation of RFFIT testing methods in RFFIT Test description below.
MU RFFIT Submission form
- A completed MU RFFIT Submission form is required for submission of sample(s).
- For questions about the pdf fillable form, contact us at 573-882-3646 or muvmdlrabies@missouri.edu
RFFIT Tests description
- RFFIT Screen test ($47.00): Yields a qualitative result of < 0.5 IU/mL or >/= 0.5 IU/mL.
- RFFIT Endpoint test ($65.00): Yields a quantitative result between 0.1 IU/mL to 10.0 IU/mL.
NOTE: If test is not specified on RFFIT submission form, submitted sample(s) will be tested as an endpoint. Client will be charged accordingly.
Specimen
- 0.5 – 2.0 mL of clear serum in an unbreakable, leak proof tube labeled with the first and last name and/or Identification number.
Packing
- See instructions at https://vmdl.missouri.edu/sample-submission-information/
- Pack each sample in a separate clear plastic bag with adsorbent material.
Shipping information
- Ship to:
One Health-Rabies Section/MU VMDL
901 East Campus Loop
Columbia, MO 65211
- 1- or 2-day shipment via courier is recommended.
- See option for a FedEx Billable Stamp and shipping supplies at https://cvmweb.missouri.edu/Docs/VMDL/VMDL_Client_Supplies_Order_Form.pdf
Result Reports
- Electronic results will be sent to the submitting clinic via fax and/or email.
Interpretation and Reporting
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 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.”
Payment
- Test fees can be found at https://vmdl.missouri.edu/tests-and-fees-all/
- The submitting clinic is the client and is responsible for payment.
- International clients are required to complete payment before testing can proceed. Lack of payment within a week will result in cancellation of the submission.
How to Pay for RFFIT Testing:
Debit/Credit Card/Web Checks: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Debit Card and Web Check payments can be made online at: https://mvl.missouri.edu/vmdlpayment/ . Please type your name and account (or invoice) number and then click the “Start Payment Process” button.
Check (Cheque) or Money Order: Checks and money orders can be made payable to Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory and sent with the sample or sent directly to:
Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory
P.O. Box 6023
Columbia, MO 65205
U.S.A.
Please do not send any medical specimens to the PO Box listed above.
Questions about Billing?
Phone 573-882-6811
Email: mucvmvmdlbusiness@missouri.edu
If a payment is not received, an invoice will be sent to the submitting clinic.