Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Throat swab

Collection Container/Tube: 

For optimal performance, use the swabs provided in the test kit.  Alternatively, foam, polyester, HydraFlock® and nylon flocked throat swabs can be used to collect throat swab samples.  The BBL™ CultureSwab™ Liquid Amies transport media system has been tested and is also acceptable.

Rayon swabs and the BBL™ CultureSwab™ Liquid Stuart transport media system are not suitable for use in this assay.

Collection Instructions:

1. Collect patient specimen by swabbing the posterior pharynx, tonsils and other inflamed areas. Avoid touching the tongue, cheeks and teeth with the swab.

2. Maintain sterility.

3. Label with patient's name, second unique identifier (e.g. medical record number or date of birth), date and time of collection.

4. Specimen source is required.