Identification of Haemophilus species (excluding Haemophilus ducreyi)

HRU offers a taxonomic identification service for strains of Haemophilus species isolated from cases of invasive disease. The laboratory is happy to discuss and advise upon particular clinical or epidemiological problems. Please contact Dr Mary Slack (020 8327 6091).

Turnround time: The turnaround time is 10 days.

For isolates not confirmed as Haemophilus spp a preliminary report will be issued by HRU and the isolate forwarded to LHCAI/MISU for full identification, who will issue a report in due course.

Haemophilus ducreyi

The Sexually Transmitted Bacteria Reference Laboratory (STBRL) will be offering molecular testing for Haemophilus ducreyi in the near future. Please contact Catherine Ison for advice regarding the diagnosis of H.ducreyi (chancroid) infections (020 8327 6464).

How to obtain service

Use the Haemophilus Reference Unit request formR2 Haemophilus reference unit form (PDF, 313 KB)
Haemophilus reference unit form, December 2010


Supply pure culture on chocolate agar slope. Please ensure cap is securely screwed down to optimise survival of organisms. Specimen submissions regarded by the sending laboratory as urgent should be notified to HRU by telephone (020 8327 7330/7331) to ensure that the appropriate level of priority is accorded to these specimens immediately upon receipt.

Last reviewed: 24 February 2012