Test Code Monkeypox Monkeypox
Specimen Storage
Specimens being sent to CDC for testing should be stored Refrigerated (2-8 degrees) or Frozen (-20 degrees) within an hour of collection.
Specimen Requirements
Two swabs from each lesion should be collected for testing.
Using two sterile swabs (including, but not limited to polyester, nylon or Dacron) with a plastic, wood or thin aluminum shaft, swab the lesion vigorously to collect adequate DNA. Do not use cotton swabs. It is not necessary to de-roof the lesion before swabbing. Break off the end of each swab's applicator into a 1.5 or 2 mL screw-capped container with an O-ring or place entire swab in a sterile container that has a gasket seal and is able to be shipped under the required conditions. Two swabs from each lesion should be collected, preferably from different locations on the body or from lesions which differ in appearance. Swabs and other specimens should each be placed in different containers.