Collection Instructions

Specimen Type: Cutaneous and mucocutaneous lesions from symptomatic patients

Container/Tube: 3-mL UTM/Swab set (UTM medium with Regular Flocked Swab)

Collection Instructions:

• Crusted lesions should have the crust removed by lifting with a sterile needle.
• A swab pre-moistened with sterile saline can be used to collect in areas lacking visible lesions.

1. Rotate the swab tip several times across the mucosal surface.
2. Remove the swab and insert into the red top tube of the viral transport medium (UTM) immediately.
3. Push the swab into the tube and break the plastic shaft swab at the break line.
4. Replace cap and screw on tightly.
5. Label specimen with at least 2 patient identifiers (usually name and date of birth). Indicate source.
6. Store refrigerated. If transport exceeds 24 hours, freeze specimens at -70^oC

Note:

• Creams, ointments, lotions, ice, alcohol, Betadine solution, zinc, or a sitz bath reduces viral recovery.
• Blood introduced into specimen can be inhibitory.
• Calcium alginate swabs or swabs with wooden shafts should not be used because they may inhibit Herpes viral replication.

• Viral transport media (UTM) is collection and transport tube of choice. M4 RT is acceptable for OB/GYN clients.

• CSF is not an acceptable specimen type