Specimen Requirements

Container/Tube Type: 

Sterile Swab

Collection Information: 

Oral/buccal swab in sterile, leak proof container.
Buccal swab (Mumps PCR): Swab the buccal cavity (the space between the cheek and teeth). The parotid duct drains in this space near the upper molars. Massage the parotid gland area just in front of the ear and near the angle of the jaw for 30 seconds prior to collecting secretions on the swab. Swab the area between the cheek and gum by sweeping the swab near the upper molar to the lower molar area. Place swab in M4 viral transport medium and do not remove swab.

Transport Information: 

1. Do not use calcium alginate swabs or swabs on wooden shafts.
2. For swabs that are placed in M4-RT transport tube provided in kit or equivalent viral transport medium: DO NOT REMOVE SWAB.
3. Refrigerate all specimens at 2-8°C immediately after collection. DO NOT FREEZE.
4. Wrap the specimen in absorbent material, and place into a biohazard bag.
5. Only one specimen per biohazard bag.
6. Label each specimen with the patient name or unique identifier. UNLABELLED SPECIMENS WILL NOT BE TESTED
7. A completed Viral and Bacterial PCR and DFA Test Request Form must accompany the specimen.