07/17/2024 Conjunctival Swab Specimen Collection for Detection of Avian Influenza A(H5) Viruses

Overview

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published a Desk Reference Graphic describing the procedure for collecting, storing, and transporting conjunctival specimens for influenza A(H5) testing of patients with conjunctivitis and suspected infection.

For patients who are only presenting with conjunctivitis, CDC recommends collection of both conjunctival swab and nasopharyngeal swab specimens placed in separate tubes of Viral Transport Medium (VTM) or Universal Transport Medium (UTM). For patients presenting with both conjunctivitis and respiratory symptoms, CDC recommends collection of three clinical specimens: (1) a conjunctival swab, (2) a nasopharyngeal swab, and (3) a combined nasal swab and oropharyngeal (throat) swab, each placed into a separate tube of VTM or UTM. For more information and recommendations, please review the graphic in detail.

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Resources

• Avian Flu | CDC
• Conjunctival Swab Specimen Collection for Detection of Avian Influenza A(H5) Viruses Desk Reference Graphic | CDC
• Influenza Specimen Collection Desk Reference Graphic | CDC
• 05/31/2024: Lab Advisory: Enforcement Discretion Granted for the Use of Conjunctival Swabs with the CDC Human Influenza Virus Real-Time RT-PCR Diagnostic Panel, Influenza A/H5 Subtyping Kit
• Interim Guidance on Testing and Specimen Collection for Patients with Suspected Infection with Novel Influenza A Viruses with the Potential to Cause Severe Disease in Humans Testing Procedures for Laboratory Personnel | CDC
• Guidelines for Laboratory Biosafety: Handling and Processing Specimens Associated with Novel Influenza A Viruses, Including Potential A(H5N1) Virus | CDC

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