Collection of upper respiratory tract specimens for diagnostic testing

This site describes how to collect upper respiratory tract specimens for initial diagnostic testing for current Severe Acute Respiratory Infections. The techniques described are based on the recommendations from the WHO, CDC, and relevant scientific literature.

The site can be freely used to guide self-testing and educate healthcare workers who collect specimens for molecular- and rapid antigen tests.

The site is developed by volunteer medical doctors and microbiologists without any relationship with industry partners. The site is supported by the Novo Nordisk Foundation in relation to the scientific project SAMPLE.

Illustration of the anatomical locations in the nasal cavity and the pharynx

Background

A swab of the oral cavity for COVID-19 diagnostics using a swab, tongue depressor, collection tube, and gloves.

A swab of the nasopharynx for COVID-19 diagnostics on a man through the nasal cavity using a swab and gloves.

A swab of the anterior nasal cavity for COVID-19 diagnostic using a swab and gloves

A man is looking at himself in the mirror and is about to swab his oral cavity with a swab for COVID-19 diagnostics. A self test. An iPhone is used for illumination.

A man is conducting a saliva test in a vial for COVID-19 diagnostics.

Skills assesment

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