Blood in heparin (green top) tube cannot be used for this test. Ensure thorough mixing of blood in EDTA (e.g. invert tube several times immediately following collection) to prevent clotting. Clotted blood is not suitable for testing. Moist swabs are preferred; it its recommended to add 1-2 drops of sterile saline to the swab and place in a sterile, leak-proof container (e.g. red top tube). Bacterial culture swabs submitted in bacterial culture media (gel, charcoal, etc.) are not suitable for PCR testing. Fresh samples provide the most accurate results.Learn more about sending samples for molecular diagnostics testing in our online Education Library.
Collection Container
Blood: EDTA (purple top) tube or heparin (green top) tube.
Tissue or swabs: sealed, plastic leak-proof bag or container.
Packing Instructions
Label all samples. Ship overnight on cold packs in an insulated container.
