Container Types: Viral Transport Medium/Universal Transport Medium (VTM/UTM), Cobas PCR Media
Preferred Draw Volume
3 mL of media
Minimum Draw Volume
1 mL of media
Unacceptable Conditions
BAL Fluid will be rejected for COVID 19 PCR
Dry swabs
Collection Comments
Nasal or Nasopharengeal swab collection.
Storage/Transport Temperature
See stability for individual collection containers.
Stability (from collection to initiation)
RMBIO VTM: Refrigerated 2-8°C up to 7 days
COPAN VTM: Room temperature <24 hours; Refrigerated 2-8°C up to 7 days
BD VTM: Room temperature <24 hours; Refrigerated 2-8°C up to 7 days
Add 0.9% physiological saline for media
COBAS PCR Media tube- Room temperature up to 7 days
Container Types: Viral Transport Medium/Universal Transport Medium (VTM/UTM), Cobas PCR Media
Preferred Draw Volume
3 mL of media
Minimum Draw Volume
1 mL of media
Unacceptable Conditions
BAL Fluid will be rejected for COVID 19 PCR
Dry swabs
Collection Comments
Nasal or Nasopharengeal swab collection.
Storage/Transport Temperature
See stability for individual collection containers.
Stability (from collection to initiation)
RMBIO VTM: Refrigerated 2-8°C up to 7 days
COPAN VTM: Room temperature <24 hours; Refrigerated 2-8°C up to 7 days
BD VTM: Room temperature <24 hours; Refrigerated 2-8°C up to 7 days
Add 0.9% physiological saline for media
COBAS PCR Media tube- Room temperature up to 7 days
OR 
