Supplies for Submission
2 sterile vials with leak-proof screw caps (preferably with O-ring or gasket seal) and 2 synthetic swabs (NOT cotton swabs or swabs with wooden or metal shafts).
Alternately, a minimum of 1 mL viral transport medium (VTM ) in each of 2 sterile vials.
Specimen Collection
- Select 2-3 lesions (NOT more than 3) from different parts of the body or lesions that vary in appearance.
- Swab or brush selected lesions vigorously with 2 swabs.
- Break at shaft breakpoint or cut off shafts close to the tip. After breaking, the swab length should be no longer than 1.5 in (35 mm).
- Place each swab in a separate tube and close. If the vial does not have an O-ring or a gasket, parafilm may be used to achieve a leak-proof seal.
- Label with two identifiers. Acceptable identifiers include patient’s name, date of birth, social security number, requisition number, and medical record number.
- Freeze specimens immediately after collection.
Storage Requirements
Frozen (on dry ice).
Specimens are stable if refrigerated for 1 week or frozen for 1 month.
Causes for Rejections
Specimens with the following conditions are not accepted:
- submitted in transport media other than VTM
- cotton swabs
- swabs with wooden or metal shafts
- room temperature