ToR original
Registered Member
Here's a question I can't seem to get any Virologist to answer.
How long is a COVID 19 throat swab viable for testing when NOT stored properly?
The specific example
If a covid19 throat swab sample was returned to the LAB via regular 2nd class post (2-7 days) and it took 5 days to reach the sorting office (was in sealed package but not temperature controlled) would that sample when retrieved by the lab still be a viable sample for testing?
ie. Does it/should it be refrigerated same day etc?
How long is a COVID 19 throat swab viable for testing when NOT stored properly?
The specific example
If a covid19 throat swab sample was returned to the LAB via regular 2nd class post (2-7 days) and it took 5 days to reach the sorting office (was in sealed package but not temperature controlled) would that sample when retrieved by the lab still be a viable sample for testing?
ie. Does it/should it be refrigerated same day etc?