Viral swabs CUH
Appropriate swabs for the following investigations at CUH.
Measles
- Swabs available from Serology lab and stock kept in Controlled drug cupboard ED (advised 5 swabs in stock at all times)
- Remove blue swab from packet. Rub the blue swab along the gum line for time indicated on packet (currently 60sec)
- Place wet swab back inside the clear tube and replace the cap. Write patient's name, DOB and today's date on it- clear sample bag- check/ complete request form/order
Mpox
- Test for mpox if deemed necessary following clinical assessment
- Use viral swab in viral transport medium (red topped swab)
- Swab a cutaneous lesion (ulcer/vesicular fluid), if there are no cutaneous lesions a throat swab may be taken
- Clearly label the sample, double bag at the site of collection and take to the microbiology lab. Inform laboratory staff of suspected clade I mpox
- *Please Note Not suitable for pneumatic shute system, hand deliver
VZV
- If a varicella zoster swab is indicated for a blister test please gently press a cotton swab on a blister to collect a sample of fluid for testing
- Use viral swab in viral transport medium (red topped swab)
- Clearly label the sample, double bag at the site of collection and take to the micro. lab
- *Please Note Not suitable for pneumatic shute system, hand deliver