Due to the limited sensitivity of the Legionella direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) smear, currently included in the Legionella Culture Panel, the State Hygienic Laboratory (SHL) will discontinue this test and remove it from the test menu effective December 1, 2026.

In addition, the stand-alone Legionella multiplex PCR test will be removed from the test menu effective December 1, 2026.

SHL will continue to offer a Legionella Culture Panel that includes multiplex PCR testing, which provides superior performance characteristics compared with the DFA smear. This combined panel will be available at no additional charge.

If you have questions regarding these changes or specimen submission requirements, please contact SHL at 319-335-4500.