Laboratory Guidance for COVID-19

  • Send samples for testing directly, without waiting to batch with other samples. Please note that specimens for SARS-CoV-2 testing HAVE TO be packaged separately and not with other samples. Note: Samples can be sent by taxi.
  • Sample types accepted for SARS-CoV-2 testing:
    • Combined swab for Oropharyngeal and Nasopharyngeal samples (one swab to test both is sufficient) in ambulatory patients OR
    • Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) OR Endotracheal aspirate OR Sputum (if produced) is preferred in cases of severe illness
  • Specimens for SARS-CoV-2 testing are classified as Category B infectious substances (UN3373)

Last updated: 20 March 2020

Biosafety guidance for diagnostic laboratories handling specimens from individuals with possible, probable or confirmed infection with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Middle East respiratory syndrome Coronavirus or Avian Influenza A

File Size: (95kB)
Publication Date: 14 February 2020

Find a Topic


Topics A - Z

Publications

News