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How to take a whooping cough oral fluid swab instructions

Updated 26 October 2024

Applies to England

© Crown copyright 2024

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pertussis-whooping-cough-oral-fluid-laboratory-request-form-and-instructions/how-to-take-a-whooping-cough-oral-fluid-swab-instructions

How to take a pertussis (whooping cough) oral fluid swab

The oral fluid swab test kit contains:

  • one foam swab and clear tube in paper packet
  • one self adhesive clear plastic bag
  • one cardboard box
  • one request form
  • one pre-paid grey plastic envelope
  • one label for test tube

Instructions for use:

  1. Write the date the sample is being taken on the label and the request form. Stick the label to the clear tube.
  2. Remove the foam swab from the clear tube and swab the gum line for 2 minutes. Replace the foam swab in the clear tube and replace the lid.
  3. Place the clear tube into the self adhesive clear bag. Push air out of the bag. Remove the red strip from top and fold down corner and stick down.
  4. Wash your hands.
  5. Place the request form with the clear bag containing the sample into the cardboard box.
  6. Place the cardboard box into the pre-paid grey plastic envelope and seal. Post the pre-paid grey plastic envelope in your local Royal Mail post box.

A pictogram of these instructions is available to download.

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