Sample Collection

  Sample Collecting Instructions

Sample Timing

• Collecting the samples day 0-2: These days are critical in the timing of VOC production collection. If you forget, collect the sample as soon as you remember. Use the corresponding bags for the time of day (It may be helpful to set a reminder on your phone or calendar.)

• ✏️Collecting the samples day 3-5: These days are morning collection only. If collection occurs in the afternoon or evening, please mark the bag with “PM”.

Unmarked samples are assumed to be morning samples.

 

When To Begin Sampling

• ✏️If you have a planned exposure (like a dentist appointment), please begin sample collection that morning PRIOR to exposure using the bags labeled Day 0__AM, and mark it “PRIOR”.

• If the exposure has already occurred, begin sample collection as soon as possible on the day of exposure using the bags labeled Day 0_ and the corresponding AM/NOON/PM as appropriate. If that is not possible, begin samples on Day 1_AM, and continue on.

(If you do not begin samples on Day 0_AM, or you miss a collection, please do not return the bags and swabs that have not been used to collect samples. you can save them for single sample collection as well)

How To Collect Samples

1. 😷 If you are collecting samples for someone else, put a mask on before you start.

2. Always begin with clean hands. Do not allow alcohol to come in contact with the swabs.

3. Always start with the ankle swab:

   1. Open the barrier bag and remove the smaller collection bag.

   2. Remove the gauze.

   3. Rub the gauze 3 times across the area of the ankle between the ankle bone and heel.

   4. Replace the gauze in the collection bag. remove the air, and seal the bag.

   5. Return the collection bag into the barrier bag and seal.

 

1. For the breath sample:

   1. Open the barrier bag and remove the smaller collection bag.

   2. Open the collection bag and exhale at least 7 times directly into the bag.

   3. Remove all the air and seal the bag.

   4. Return the collection bag into the barrier bag and seal.

 

1. Store the collected samples inside the return envelope after each collection.

 

If You Experience Symptoms

• ✏️If you experience symptoms, collect an additional set of samples as soon as possible using the bags labeled Symptom Onset and mark the Day Number (Day 1, Day 2, etc.).

 

When To Stop Collecting Samples

• Take samples for Day 0 through Day 5.

• ✏️If you test positive, please mark “PCR +” or “LUCIRA +” or “RAPID +” on that day’s samples. (If there is a delay getting PCR test results, consider the day you swabbed for the PCR as the day you tested positive.)

• 📝Please fill out the contact sheet and include it in the return envelope if you would like to know the results.