Experts agree that the combined use of Copan’s patented flocked swabs and universal transport medium, available exclusively in the UK from Sterilin, is the preferred method to collect and transport samples for influenza testing. Traditionally, the UK’s flu season starts in October and places a greater demand on laboratory resources for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid immunological testing.
Supplied alongside either the 1-mL or 3-mL tubes containing universal transport medium, the flocked swabs are less bulky and easier to transport than nasopharyngeal aspirates. Sample collection is faster with flocked swabs, as less manipulation of equipment is required.
Samples collected by flocked swabs have a higher rate of positive results for respiratory viruses than those samples collected by nasal aspiration, providing benefits to clinicians and patients alike.
www.sterilin.co.uk