Viral PCR - Various sample types

Swabs:

Use red topped universal transport medium (UTM-RT MINI) available on request from the laboratory. DO NOT moisten the swab with transport medium before taking the sample.

Red topped universal transport medium

Faeces:

Collect in the standard brown topped faeces container with spoon. Please mark the request form ‘for viral investigation’

Faeces Container - Brown Container with Specimen Spoon

Urine:

Collect the sample in a plain container (without boric acid) and send to the laboratory immediately.

25 ml Universal Container - White Top (No Boric Acid)

Vesicle fluid:

Due to safety considerations the laboratory will not accept vesicle fluids in syringes with the needle still attached.

If PCR or culture is required, the fluid may be collected in a fine gauge needle and expressed into viral transport medium.

NOTE: ALWAYS SEND A SPECIMEN FOR VIRUS ISOLATION TO THE LABORATORY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Needle picture

Web Page 45 Reviewed 28/06/2019

Resident doctor strike action

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