Specimen Requirements

Nasopharyngeal sample in viral transport media is the only acceptable specimen. 

Collection instructions:  

1.  Insert a nasopharyngeal swab 1 to 1.5 cm into a nostril.  Rotate the swab against the inside of the nostril for 3 seconds while applying pressure with a finger to the outside of the nostril.

2.  Remove and place swab into the tube containing 3 mL of viral transport medium.  Break swab at the indicated break line and cap collection tube tightly.  

3.  Send collection tube to lab ASAP.