FIG 2.

Algorithm for MERS-CoV rRT-PCR specimen testing and reporting of test results. For specimen screening, the N2 assay was combined with upE testing to potentially increase screening sensitivity and to reduce the possibility of false-negative results due to polymorphisms near the binding site of the oligonucleotide primers or probes. A positive test result by either or both assays requires confirmation with the N3 assay for reporting of a presumptive positive test result. VTC, viral template control; NTC, no-template control; RP, human RNase P gene.