Specimen Collection and Handling

These guidelines on general specimen collection, storage, and handling were written for healthcare professionals to use during a respiratory disease outbreak when the pathogen is unknown.

Specimen Collection Guidelines [8 pages]
The specimens listed in this document are those that may need to be collected to detect the etiologic agent during a respiratory disease outbreak.

Specimen Labeling, Storage, and Handling [7 pages]
Guidelines for storage and handling of clinical specimens during a respiratory disease outbreak when the pathogen is unknown.

CDC Specimen Submission Form 50.34
A completed CDC Specimen Submission Form 50.34 is required to ship specimens to CDC.
Note: Approval should be obtained from CDC prior to shipping.