COVID-19 - guidance for sampling and laboratory investigations

Guidance​​

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This guidance is to support those working in sampling and laboratory investigations. This guidance covers:

• sample collection for PCR testing
• clinical indications for serology testing
• protocol for reporting SARS-CoV-2 PCR positives during periods of low prevalence
• results of testing
• guidance for microbiologists and virologists

Workforce education information and resources

​Packaging samples​

This is a guidance video which outlines the correct way to package samples from suspected COVID-19 patients for Category B transport, in line with UN3373 requirements.

Obtaining an upper respiratory tract diagnostic sample

HPS, with support from stakeholders, has produced a short video clip to support colleagues required to obtain an upper respiratory tract diagnostic sample.

This resource describes the techniques involved in obtaining an upper respiratory tract COVID-19 diagnostic sample and covers the:

• options available in relation to COVID-19-Upper respiratory tract samples
• technique involved in obtaining a nose swab
• technique involved in obtaining a throat swab
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