Collection Instructions

Specimen Collection: Swab: cutaneous and mucocutaneous lesion swabs

Container(s): 3-mL UTM/Swab set (UTM medium w/regular flocked swab)

Collection Instructions:

Crusted lesions should have the crust removed by lifting with a sterile needle.

1. Rotate the swab tip several times across the mucosal/lesion 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.

Processing Instructions (Laboratory, Outpatient or Off-site collection)

Transport Temperature: Refrigerated