The kit simplifies the isolation of viral RNA from cell-free body fluids with rapid spin column format. No phenol/chloroform extracon is required. Viral RNA binds specifically to the silica membrane while contaminants are removed in the fl uct. PCR inhibitors, such as divalent kaons and proteins, are completely removed in two efficient washing steps, leaving pure viral RNA to elute in RNAase-free water. The puri fi ed RNA is ready for use in RT-PCR, Northern blong or other downstream applications.