Group A Streptococcus PCR

Collect the respiratory or site-specific swab using the sterile collection kit recommended for the assay and immediately place the swab into the appropriate viral, bacterial or molecular transport medium. Tighten the tube securely, label the collection site and time, and place it upright in a sealed biohazard bag. Maintain 2–8°C during short transport unless the kit or receiving laboratory specifies another condition, and avoid repeated opening, leakage or freeze-thaw cycles. For Group A Streptococcus PCR, use packaging and preservation compatible with PCR; if the receiving laboratory supplies a dedicated collection kit, bottle or transport medium, that kit takes precedence over general packaging guidance.

7 Days

Mon 3 - Fri 2

For Group A Streptococcus PCR, provide the date of symptom onset or suspected exposure, relevant vaccination status where applicable, and any antimicrobial or antiviral treatment already started. Very early or late sampling can affect detectability, and a negative result may not exclude infection when the target is below the method's detection limit. Follow infection-control precautions during collection and do not combine specimens from different sites unless the laboratory specifically requests it.