Respiratory season is approaching: is your laboratory ready?
As summer draws to a close, attention is turning towards the months ahead and the seasonal increase in respiratory virus activity. For laboratories and healthcare providers, this means preparing for the increased demand for respiratory testing that typically accompanies the autumn and winter months.
The latest UKHSA data provides an early indication of changing respiratory virus activity. COVID-19 cases increased by 23.5% in the seven days to 26 August, while UKHSA continues to monitor influenza, RSV and other seasonal respiratory viruses as part of its national surveillance programme.
For laboratories, preparation is not simply about having sufficient testing capacity. Reliable specimen collection and transport are an important part of the diagnostic pathway, helping laboratories receive specimens in a condition suitable for downstream testing.
Prepare your respiratory sampling workflow
SIGMA-VIROCULT® is designed for the collection and transport of viral specimens, supporting both molecular and culture-based diagnostic workflows. Its liquid transport medium helps maintain viral specimens from collection through to laboratory analysis.
Available in 1ml, 2ml and 3ml formats, SIGMA VIROCULT® provides flexibility for different laboratory workflows. The liquid format also allows a specimen to be aliquoted where further testing or repeat analysis is required.
With a 24-month shelf life and ambient-temperature storage, SIGMA-VIROCULT® can also help laboratories maintain appropriate levels of stock ahead of anticipated increases in respiratory testing demand.
SIGMA-VIROCULT® is suitable for respiratory applications and has demonstrated virus survival across a range of viruses, including influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus and rhinovirus. It is also compliant with CLSI M40-A requirements for microbiology specimen transport devices.
Get ready before demand increases
Respiratory testing can place additional pressure on laboratories during the autumn and winter months. Reviewing sampling requirements and stock levels now can help laboratories prepare for changes in demand rather than responding once pressure is already building.
Whether you are preparing for routine seasonal testing, respiratory surveillance or periods of increased testing demand, choosing a reliable viral transport system is an important part of the workflow.
Is your laboratory ready for the respiratory season?
Explore SIGMA-VIROCULT® or speak to the our team about your respiratory specimen collection and transport requirements.
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