For shipping address and information about Specimen Transport Services we provide, please see Specimen Handling.

Viral specimens should be placed in plastic bags (use a separate bag for each patient’s specimens). Requisitions should be attached to the outside of the plastic bag or in a separate pouch if available. Viruses are labile and speed of transport is essential. Transport to the laboratory immediately. PCR testing does not require immediate transport.

Chlamydia cultures must be stored and transported at refrigeration temperatures. If Chlamydia culture specimens can not be transported to the laboratory within two days of collection, freeze them at -70°C and transport on dry ice. Chlamydia trachomatis Aptima Combo 2 medium urine specimens are stable 30 days and swabs are stable 60 days at room temperature.

For additional Transport information depending on tests, see Diagnostic Virology Testing.