Medical Wire & Equipment (MWE) is proud to support Swab and Send, a citizen science antibiotic discovery programme led by the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) through the Infection Innovation Consortium (iiCON).

MWE has generously donated swabs to support the programme, helping researchers investigate microorganisms collected from a wide range of environments as part of the ongoing search for new antimicrobial compounds.

Bringing citizen science into antibiotic discovery

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the major global healthcare challenges of our time. As bacteria and other microorganisms become resistant to existing treatments, the search for new antimicrobial compounds is increasingly important.

Swab and Send invites members of the public to contribute to this research by sampling the world around them. Participants can collect samples from a wide variety of sources, including soil, plants and everyday objects such as mobile phones and light switches, as well as less familiar environments.

These samples are then sent to the research team at LSTM for investigation, giving scientists access to a diverse range of microorganisms that could hold potential for future antimicrobial discovery.

By involving the public in sample collection, Swab and Send helps researchers explore microorganisms from environments beyond those typically accessed through laboratory-based research alone.

From environmental samples to potential discoveries

Once the swabs arrive at the laboratory, researchers culture microorganisms from the collected samples and isolate individual microorganisms for further investigation.

The isolates are screened for antimicrobial activity against indicator microorganisms, including Escherichia coli, Candida albicans and Candida auris. Researchers look for zones of inhibition: clear areas around an isolate where the growth of an indicator microorganism has been inhibited.

Isolates that demonstrate promising antimicrobial activity are classified as ‘hit’ isolates. These can then be investigated further to understand their activity and identify the compounds responsible.

Although identifying a hit is only one stage in a much longer research process, these findings can help scientists explore potential sources of new antimicrobial compounds.

Supporting reliable sample collection

The quality of sample collection is an important part of the Swab and Send programme. Microorganisms need to be collected successfully and remain viable for subsequent laboratory investigation, making the performance and reliability of the swabs an important consideration.

The Swab and Send team highlighted the value of MWE’s contribution:

“The quality and reliability of the swabs supplied by MWE Products have been extremely valuable to our Swab and Send programme, enabling us to collect environmental samples from a wide range of locations and support our ongoing search for microorganisms with antimicrobial activity.”

MWE’s donation of swabs helps support sample collection on a substantial scale, providing researchers with more opportunities to investigate environmental microorganisms and identify promising candidates for further study.

Agar plates Swab and Send Team have recovered from with MWE swabs, and location of where the swabs were taken from

As a UK manufacturer of specimen collection and transport systems, MWE is pleased to contribute to research that addresses an important global health challenge. Supporting Swab and Send is an opportunity to put our products to use in an innovative programme that brings together public participation and scientific research.

We are proud to play a part in the programme and look forward to following its progress.

Find out more about Swab and Send

Visit the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine’s Swab and Send project page to learn more about the programme and how members of the public can get involved.

Working together to support research

From environmental sampling to laboratory research, reliable specimen collection is an important part of the research process.

If you’re working on a research project and looking for specimen collection solutions, MWE would welcome the opportunity to discuss your requirements and explore how our products could support your work.

Discuss your project with MWE

We’re pleased to welcome Sue Macauley to MWE as Account Manager – North, bringing more than 20 years of commercial experience across the life sciences and laboratory sectors, alongside a strong scientific background in microbiology and molecular biology.

With experience spanning laboratory research, technical sales and account management, Sue brings a valuable combination of scientific understanding and customer-focused commercial expertise to her new role at MWE.

A Strong Scientific Foundation

Sue began her career in microbiology and molecular biology, working as a research technician at the Universities of Strathclyde and Glasgow before completing a BBSRC-sponsored PhD in industrial microbial fermentation at Strathclyde University, with Roche Fine Vitamins & Chemicals as the industrial partner.

She then moved into industry gaining hands-on experience within GMP environments and mammalian cell culture.

This early scientific experience has given Sue a strong understanding of laboratory environments and the practical considerations involved in generating reliable results – knowledge she can now bring to her work with MWE customers.

Over 20 Years of Commercial Experience

Following her laboratory career, Sue moved into technical sales and account management, developing more than two decades of experience supporting customers across the life sciences, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.

Throughout her career, she has held roles including Product Specialist and Key Account Manager, working closely with laboratories, scientists and manufacturing organisations to understand their requirements and identify practical solutions.

Her experience across both scientific and commercial environments gives her a valuable perspective when working with customers and understanding the challenges behind different applications.

A Belief in Teamwork

For Sue, collaboration has been a consistent part of both her professional and personal life. She believes that working closely with colleagues and customers is key to finding the right solutions and achieving shared goals.

“Throughout my career, I have worked collaboratively with diverse, cross-functional teams spanning sales, management, customer service, engineering, technical and field applications, and I place great importance on building strong relationships and a positive team ethic to achieve shared goals.”

That team spirit extends beyond the workplace too. Sue has captained ladies’ triples pétanque teams to three consecutive Scottish National titles, as well as leading ladies’ triples and doubles teams to success at international pétanque championships in Spain and Denmark.

For Sue, these experiences have reinforced the importance of communication, trust and bringing out the best in every member of a team.

Looking Ahead at MWE

Sue is particularly looking forward to bringing her scientific and commercial experience together at MWE and returning to her microbiology roots.

“I’m really looking forward to getting out across the North, meeting MWE’s existing customers and developing new relationships. Having started my career in microbiology, it’s exciting to come back to an area that has always interested me, while bringing with me the customer and commercial experience I’ve gained over the last 20 years.”

In her new role, Sue will support customers across the North of the UK, working across MWE’s clinical, food, pharmaceutical, veterinary, environmental and forensic markets.

With her combination of scientific knowledge, commercial experience and collaborative approach, Sue will work closely with customers to understand their applications and help them identify the right specimen collection and transport solutions for their needs.

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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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Introducing the MWE Knowledge Hub: A Central Resource for Research and Industry Insight

Finding relevant research and industry information can take time. With resources spread across publications, presentations and different areas of the industry, finding the information you need isn’t always straightforward.

MWE is pleased to announce it’s new Knowledge Hub, a central, searchable resource bringing together studies, posters and articles relevant to specimen collection, transport and diagnostics.

A growing library of knowledge

The Knowledge Hub provides a place to explore research and industry insight across the areas that matter to you. Resources can now be explored using filters for industry, pathogen, and product, or searched directly to help you find relevant information quickly.

Whether you’re looking into a particular pathogen, exploring an application, researching specimen collection and transport, or simply keeping up with developments in the field, the Knowledge Hub is designed to make useful information easier to find.

Connecting products with evidence

Research and evidence are an important part of understanding specimen collection and transport workflows. As part of the new Knowledge Hub, selected relevant studies are also being highlighted directly on MWE product pages. This provides a simple way to discover supporting research while exploring individual products, while the Knowledge Hub itself provides the wider library for those looking to explore further.

The result is two ways to find useful information: discover research through a product you’re interested in, or browse the wider library by topic, pathogen, industry or product.

A resource that will continue to grow

The Knowledge Hub is intended to be a growing resource. As new studies, posters and relevant industry content become available, we will continue to build the library.

Our aim is simple: to make relevant knowledge easier to find and provide a useful resource for clinicians, microbiologists, laboratory professionals and others working across diagnostics and healthcare.

Explore the MWE Knowledge Hub

Browse the growing library of studies, posters and articles at: https://www.mwe.co.uk/knowledge-hub/

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The way laboratories diagnose infectious diseases is continually evolving. While culture remains the gold standard for many investigations, molecular testing is playing an increasingly important role in delivering rapid and targeted results. Rather than replacing one another, these approaches are often used together, with laboratories selecting the workflow that best suits the patient, pathogen and clinical need.

As a result, specimen collection devices must be able to support more than one diagnostic pathway.

Some laboratories continue to follow a culture-first approach, where specimens are cultured before molecular testing is performed if additional identification or confirmation is required. Others are adopting molecular-first workflows, using PCR or other molecular techniques to rapidly detect pathogens before carrying out culture for antimicrobial susceptibility testing, epidemiological investigations or further characterisation.

Whichever approach is taken, the quality and versatility of the original specimen remain critical. A collection device that supports multiple testing methods helps laboratories maximise the value of every sample, reducing the need for repeat collections and providing greater flexibility as testing requirements change.

Medical Wire & Equipment’s specimen collection portfolio has been developed to support these evolving workflows. Products including the SIGMA liquid transport range are designed to maintain specimen integrity while enabling laboratories to perform culture and molecular testing from the same collection where appropriate and validated within their own procedures.

This flexibility allows laboratories to adapt to changing clinical priorities without compromising specimen quality. Whether a specimen is destined for culture, molecular analysis or both, selecting the right collection device ensures diagnostic pathways remain efficient and future-ready.

As healthcare systems continue to modernise and diagnostic technologies advance, laboratories require specimen collection solutions that can evolve alongside them. Supporting both culture-first and molecular-first workflows provides greater resilience, helping laboratories respond to emerging pathogens, changing testing algorithms and increasing demands for rapid, accurate diagnosis.

At Medical Wire & Equipment, we work closely with laboratories to understand their workflow requirements and provide the guidance, technical support and educational resources needed to implement specimen collection solutions with confidence.

Because every diagnostic pathway starts with a specimen, and the right specimen collection device helps ensure laboratories have the flexibility to choose the testing pathway that delivers the best outcome for patients.

Every laboratory is different. If you’re reviewing your diagnostic workflow, our team is here to help. Get in touch to discuss your laboratory’s priorities, current testing pathways and future requirements, and we’ll help you identify the specimen collection solution that best supports your workflow.

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Across clinical microbiology, more laboratories are reviewing their specimen collection pathways and making the transition from traditional gel transport systems to liquid collection and transport devices. The reason is simple: laboratories want to get more from every sample they collect.

Every specimen represents a patient, and in many cases there is only one opportunity to collect it. As diagnostic testing continues to evolve, the same specimen is increasingly expected to support multiple testing methods, from traditional culture through to molecular assays. Liquid transport systems provide greater flexibility by allowing a single specimen to be used across different diagnostic workflows, helping laboratories maximise the value of each collection.

The move is also being driven by increasing laboratory automation and changing testing demands. Liquid specimens are well suited to automated processing and can be easily aliquoted for additional investigations without requiring repeat sampling. This can improve laboratory efficiency while reducing the inconvenience and potential delays associated with recalling patients for further specimen collection.

For healthcare providers, this means fewer repeat collections, streamlined workflows and the confidence that specimens can support both current and future diagnostic requirements. As healthcare systems continue to focus on efficiency, preparedness and improved patient pathways, many organisations are recognising that the specimen collection device is no longer just a transport medium – it is the first step in the entire diagnostic process.

Transitioning to a liquid collection and transport system does not need to be complicated. While any change in established laboratory practice requires careful planning, the process can be straightforward with the right support and guidance.

At Medical Wire & Equipment, we work closely with laboratories throughout their transition, providing practical training and implementation support tailored to individual requirements. This includes on-site training, virtual education sessions, instructional videos, step-by-step guidance documents and technical resources designed to help laboratory teams adopt new workflows with confidence.

Our experienced team can also provide advice on validation studies, workflow considerations and best practice to ensure a smooth implementation while minimising disruption to routine laboratory operations.

As diagnostic technologies continue to advance, specimen collection devices need to evolve alongside them. Choosing a liquid collection and transport system enables laboratories to make the most of every sample, supporting multiple testing pathways from a single collection and helping to future-proof diagnostic services for whatever comes next.

If your laboratory is considering the move from gel to liquid transport systems, our team is available to discuss your current workflow and provide the resources and support needed to make the transition as seamless as possible.

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Corsham, United Kingdom: Medical Wire & Equipment Ltd. (MWE), a leading provider of pre-analytical specimen collection and transportation devices is pleased to announce a new distribution agreement with Bluewater Medical Supplies. a established Medical Supplier with a large footprint in the Caribbean. This new partnership will strengthen the availability of MWE product ranges in the Cayman Islands and wider Caribbean area and enhance support for customers across the area.

Under the terms of the agreement, Bluewater Medical Supplies will distribute MWE’s renowned products in the Clinical & Veterinary sectors including SIGMA liquid transport devices, TRANSWAB™ Gel products and our DRYSWAB™ ranges providing customers with faster delivery times, increased local stock availability, and dedicated sales and technical expertise.

“MWE are delighted to announce this new partnership for our products for the Caribbean market. Bluewater are an established medical supplies company and ideally placed to drive additional growth for both organisations,” said Richard Farmer, Export Sales Manager, MWE.

“We are excited to have added on MWE to our diagnostics portfolio to fill a necessary gap in microbiology collection in clinical, agriculture and veterinary sectors.  We are looking forward to providing MWE’s quality products to our growing customer base throughout the Caribbean” said Jodan Stubblefield, Director, Bluewater Medical Supplies.

The partnership is expected to accelerate growth for both companies, supporting expanding demand in Clinical & Veterinary markets.

About Medical Wire & Equipment Ltd

Medical Wire & Equipment Ltd is a global organisation in the diagnostics arena, with expertise in developing and manufacturing pre-analytical devices for specimen collection and transportation. Established in 1952, MWE are a family-owned business with a commitment to innovation, quality & customer service, the company delivers specimen collection and transportation devices to customers and distributors globally.
Learn more at: www.mwe.co.uk

About Bluewater Medical

Founded in 2018, Bluewater Medical Supplies is an established Medical Supplier with a large footprint in the Caribbean for surgical supplies, pharmaceuticals, orthopaedic supplies, cardiac equipment, general medical supplies and recently the addition of diagnostics supplies and equipment.  While based in the Cayman Islands we are able to serve the greater Caribbean in addition to meeting local demand.  Our wide customer base includes large government entities and hospitals, small private clinics and businesses, as well as veterinary and agriculture. Bluewater Medical aims to be a full-service provider for the medical and clinical supplies in the Caribbean.

Learn more at  www.bluewater.ky

Looking to expand your portfolio with a trusted partner? Contact us to explore distribution opportunities.

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We’re pleased to welcome Chris Roberts to Medical Wire & Equipment as a new Regulatory Compliance Manager.

Chris joins us at an exciting time as we continue to strengthen our regulatory and quality capabilities to support customers around the world. Bringing experience in Regulatory Affairs and Quality Management within the medical device sector, Chris has worked across technical documentation, compliance activities, post-market surveillance, and quality systems within regulated environments.

His knowledge and experience will help support Medical Wire & Equipment’s ongoing commitment to quality, compliance, and continuous improvement, ensuring we remain well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the wider healthcare industry.

As Regulatory Compliance Manager, Chris will work closely across the business to support regulatory processes, quality initiatives, and compliance activities, helping us maintain the high standards our customers have come to expect from Medical Wire & Equipment.

We’re delighted to have Chris on board and look forward to the contribution he will make as part of the team.

Please join us in welcoming Chris to Medical Wire & Equipment.

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Elevating Standards: Our Gowning Room Upgrade

At Medical Wire & Equipment (MWE), quality doesn’t begin at production, it starts the moment our team prepares to enter it. That’s why we’ve recently invested in upgrading our gowning room, the first step in the production process, reinforcing our commitment to the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and product integrity.

Why the Gowning Room Matters

The gowning room is a critical control point in any controlled manufacturing environment. It ensures that personnel entering production areas are appropriately prepared, minimising contamination risk and maintaining the sterility required for medical device manufacturing.

By strengthening this first step in the process, we strengthen everything that follows.

Designed for Compliance and Clarity

A key focus of the upgrade was improving adherence to health and safety and sterility protocols through clear, visual communication.

• PPE requirements are now prominently displayed with easy-to-follow graphics
• Visual cues support correct gowning procedures for all staff
• The layout has been optimised to guide a logical, compliant workflow

This reduces ambiguity and ensures consistency across teams which is an essential factor in regulated environments.

More Space, Better Flow

We’ve expanded the size of the gowning room to improve both usability and efficiency.

The increased space allows for:

• Smoother movement
• Reduced congestion in high-traffic periods
• A more structured gowning process from entry to production

This upgrade not only improves operational flow but also supports better compliance by design.

Practical Improvements That Make a Difference

Beyond structural changes, several practical enhancements have been introduced:

• Additional hangers to support organised PPE storage
• Improved layout for accessibility and ease of use
• A more intuitive setup that supports correct behaviours

These may seem like small changes, but in a controlled environment, small improvements compound into meaningful gains in consistency and quality.

Supporting Quality You Can Trust

Every improvement we make behind the scenes is ultimately about ensuring that the products we deliver meet the highest possible standards.

From specimen collection swabs to transport systems, our customers around the world rely on us for consistency, safety, and performance. The gowning room upgrade is another step in ensuring that every product leaving our facility reflects that trust.

Continuous Improvement at MWE

This investment is part of our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement across all areas of our operations.

By refining our processes, enhancing our facilities, and supporting our people, we ensure that MWE remains a trusted partner in global healthcare.

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Corsham, United Kingdom: Medical Wire & Equipment Ltd. (MWE), a leading provider of pre-analytical specimen collection and transportation devices is pleased to announce a new distribution agreement with Cedarlane Laboratories USA Inc. a respected distributor specialising in the life science industry. This strategic partnership will strengthen the availability of MWE product ranges in the USA and enhance support for customers across the area.

Under the terms of the agreement, Cedarlane Laboratories USA Inc. will distribute MWE’s renowned products in the Clinical, Food and Environmental sectors which includes FDA 510(k) approved products such as our DRYSWAB™ Range, NRSII™ and Amnicator® ranges. The distribution agreement will provide customers with faster delivery times, increased local stock availability, and dedicated sales and technical expertise.

“MWE are delighted to announce this new partnership for our products for the important US market. Cedarlane are well placed to both support our existing customer base and drive additional growth for both organisations,” said Richard Farmer, Export Sales Manager, MWE.

“Cedarlane is excited to welcome MWE to our growing portfolio of best-in-class suppliers. MWE’s market-leading specimen collection and transportation products are a natural fit alongside our clinical, research, environmental and food testing product lines. We look forward to building on this partnership for years to come.”, said Eddie Johnson, Director – Diagnostics, Cedarlane.

The partnership is expected to accelerate growth for both companies, supporting expanding demand in clinical & food markets. Customers in USA will benefit from improved product access, local knowledge, and comprehensive after‑sales support.

About Medical Wire & Equipment Ltd

Medical Wire & Equipment Ltd is a global organisation in the diagnostics arena, with expertise in developing and manufacturing pre-analytical devices for specimen collection and transportation. Established in 1952, MWE are a family-owned business with a commitment to innovation, quality & customer service, the company delivers specimen collection and transportation devices to customers and distributors globally.
Learn more at: www.mwe.co.uk

About Cedarlane Laboratories USA Inc.

Cedarlane Laboratories USA Inc. is part of TCP Analytical. TCP Analytical is dedicated to making research and production simpler, faster, and more reliable through a focused portfolio of chemical, research and diagnostic reagents, and laboratory product companies in the USA & Canada.

Learn more at: www.tcpanalytical.com

Looking to expand your portfolio with a trusted partner? Contact us to explore distribution opportunities.

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The Critical Role of Diagnostics and Sample Integrity

Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency highlights a concerning resurgence of measles across England in early 2026. Since January, over 150 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported, with the majority concentrated in London and the West Midlands, and predominantly affecting children under 10 years of age.

Why Measles Remains a Public Health Priority

Measles is one of the most contagious viral diseases, capable of spreading rapidly in under-vaccinated populations. Outbreaks are often driven by gaps in immunisation coverage, with the World Health Organization recommending at least 95% vaccination uptake to maintain herd immunity.

In the current UK outbreak, transmission is particularly evident in school-aged children, reinforcing the importance of rapid identification, isolation, and public health intervention.

However, while vaccination remains the cornerstone of prevention, laboratory diagnostics and surveillance are equally critical in outbreak control.

The Role of Laboratory Testing in Outbreak Management

Guidance from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention emphasises that laboratory confirmation is essential for:

• Differentiating measles from other febrile rash illnesses
• Confirming suspected cases quickly
• Supporting epidemiological investigations
• Monitoring transmission patterns and identifying new strains

Accurate and timely diagnostics enable health authorities to implement targeted interventions, limit spread, and better understand outbreak dynamics.

Supporting Diagnostics with Robust Sample Collection

In outbreak scenarios, the quality and integrity of the sample are just as important as the analytical method itself. Poor sample collection or transport can delay diagnosis, reduce sensitivity, and compromise surveillance data.

This is where MWE’s solutions play a vital role.

SIGMA-VIROCULT® – Reliable Viral Sample Transport

Designed for the collection and transport of viral specimens, SIGMA VIROCULT® helps preserve viral viability from point of collection through to laboratory analysis.

In the context of measles, this supports:

• Accurate initial diagnosis through reliable specimen preservation
• Consistent results across decentralised or high-throughput testing environments
• Reduced risk of sample degradation, particularly during transport

SIGMA-MM™ – Enabling Safe and Scalable Molecular Workflows

For laboratories handling high volumes of suspected cases, SIGMA MM™ offers an additional advantage. Its inactivation and stabilisation capabilities support:

• Safe handling of infectious samples
• Rapid molecular testing workflows
• Stabilisation of nucleic acids for downstream analysis

Crucially, this also enables epidemiological tracking, including sequencing efforts to monitor viral evolution and transmission pathways.

From Diagnosis to Surveillance: Enabling Outbreak Control

Effective outbreak response depends on more than identifying individual cases. It requires:

• Scalable testing capacity
• Reliable sample transport systems
• Compatibility with molecular and automated workflows
• High-quality data to inform public health decisions

By supporting both frontline diagnostics and downstream molecular analysis, solutions like SIGMA-VIROCULT® and SIGMA-MM™ contribute to a more coordinated and effective response.

Rethinking Your Outbreak Response Strategy

The current measles outbreak is a reminder that even vaccine-preventable diseases can quickly re-emerge when immunity gaps exist. While increasing vaccination uptake remains essential, diagnostic readiness and laboratory infrastructure are equally critical components of outbreak management.

Ensuring that every sample collected is fit for purpose (preserved, stabilised, and ready for analysis) can make a measurable difference in how quickly outbreaks are detected, understood, and contained.

Supporting Your Laboratory Through Outbreak Response

From sample collection to molecular workflows, our experts are ready to help you strengthen your diagnostic pathway.

Contact Us Here

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In clinical diagnostics, small formulation changes can have disproportionate impact. One of the most significant recent shifts in specimen transport has been the move from traditional gel-based media to liquid transport systems. On the surface, the change appears small. Operationally and analytically, however, it represents a meaningful step forward in workflow optimisation and diagnostic efficiency.

From Containment to Suspension

Gel transport media were designed primarily to stabilise and protect organisms during transit. While effective for containment, gels inherently limit dispersion. The sample remains partially immobilised within a semi-solid matrix, which can restrict release during downstream processing.

Liquid media, by contrast, fully suspend the specimen within a solution. This suspension-based environment enables more complete organism elution from the swab and more uniform distribution throughout the transport medium. The result is improved recovery rates and more reliable downstream detection, particularly critical in molecular assays where target concentration directly influences sensitivity.

Multiple Tests from a Single Sample

One of the most practical advantages of liquid media is the ability to perform multiple tests from a single collected specimen.

Because the sample is dispersed throughout the liquid, laboratories can aliquot defined volumes for different applications (culture, PCR, sequencing, or reflex testing) without compromising the integrity of the remaining specimen. This is far more challenging with gel systems, where organisms may not be evenly distributed and extraction can be less predictable.

Aliquoting supports:

• Parallel testing workflows
• Reflex testing without re-collection
• Retrospective analysis
• Efficient sample archiving

In high-throughput environments, this flexibility reduces repeat sampling and enhances laboratory productivity.

Improved Elution and Recovery

Elution efficiency (the release of collected material from the swab into the transport medium) is a critical but sometimes overlooked performance parameter.

Liquid systems facilitate improved mechanical agitation and vortexing, promoting consistent transfer of cells, bacteria, or viral particles into suspension. This enhanced release increases analytical yield, particularly in low-biomass samples.

Greater recovery translates directly into:

• Increased diagnostic sensitivity
• Reduced false negatives
• More reproducible molecular results

For laboratories operating under stringent performance metrics, even marginal gains in recovery can significantly influence clinical outcomes.

Compatibility with Automation

Modern laboratories are increasingly automated, integrating liquid handling platforms, robotic decappers, and high-throughput extraction systems.

Liquid media align naturally with these workflows. Defined volumes can be aspirated directly by automated liquid handling systems, eliminating the variability introduced by semi-solid matrices. The consistency of a liquid sample improves pipetting accuracy, reduces mechanical strain on equipment, and supports closed-system processing.

Consistency for Molecular Testing

Molecular diagnostics demand uniformity. PCR, NAAT, and sequencing platforms rely on consistent nucleic acid availability and predictable sample input.

Liquid transport systems provide more reproducible sample release and homogeneous target distribution. This consistency enhances assay reliability and supports standardised extraction protocols.

A Subtle Shift with a Significant Impact

Moving from gel to liquid media may appear to be a minor formulation change. In practice, it reflects a broader evolution in diagnostic thinking from simple preservation toward workflow optimisation, automation readiness, and analytical precision.

The transition supports multi-test flexibility, improved recovery, automation integration, and molecular consistency. It reduces inefficiencies and positions laboratories to meet increasing demand without compromising quality.

It is, ultimately, a subtle shift with a substantial operational impact — optimising workflows for the future of diagnostic efficiency.

Considering the move from gel to liquid media? Partner with our team to implement a solution built for performance, automation and future-ready diagnostics.

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Why Awareness Still Matters

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet it continues to affect women globally due to gaps in screening access, uptake, and follow‑up. While advances in HPV testing and molecular diagnostics have transformed our ability to detect risk earlier and more accurately, awareness months like this one remain critical. They create space to discuss not just the disease itself, but the real‑world barriers that prevent people from engaging with screening in the first place.

Participation in cervical screening programmes is influenced by far more than clinical guidelines. Cultural stigma, discomfort, time pressures, geography, and previous negative healthcare experiences all play a role. Improving outcomes therefore requires a broader view of care, one that prioritises accessibility, dignity, and patient choice alongside analytical performance.

Screening Works If People Can Access It

Routine cervical screening has dramatically reduced incidence and mortality where uptake is high. However, in many regions, participation rates are plateauing or declining. This is not necessarily due to a lack of awareness of cervical cancer risk, but rather the practical and emotional challenges associated with traditional clinician‑led sampling.

For some individuals, attending an appointment is difficult due to work, caring responsibilities, or distance from healthcare facilities. For others, the invasive nature of a speculum exam can be a deterrent, particularly for those with a history of trauma or discomfort during previous procedures. These realities highlight a simple truth: a screening programme can only be effective if it fits into people’s lives.

The Role of Self‑Collection in Improving Screening Equity

Self‑collection for HPV testing is increasingly recognised as a powerful tool to address barriers to cervical screening. By allowing individuals to collect their own sample in a non‑clinical setting, self‑collection offers greater privacy, autonomy, and convenience without compromising analytical validity when appropriately designed and validated.

From a public health perspective, self‑collection has the potential to:

• Reach under‑screened and never‑screened populations
• Reduce inequalities linked to socioeconomic status, geography, or healthcare access
• Increase overall participation rates in organised screening programmes

Importantly, self‑collection is not about replacing clinicians or existing pathways. Instead, it complements traditional models of care by offering an alternative route for those who might otherwise disengage entirely.

Broadening the Reach of Care

As healthcare systems explore more preventive and decentralised approaches, self-collection is one option being considered to help broaden access to care and support participation.

Improving outcomes relies on collaboration across public health bodies, clinicians, laboratories, diagnostics manufacturers, and kit providers. By working together, there is an opportunity to design and implement collection options that align with established screening pathways while addressing practical barriers to access.

Expanding choice in how people engage with cervical screening is not about changing care models wholesale, but about supporting programmes with additional, flexible tools. When accessibility is considered alongside analytical performance, screening advances are more likely to translate into meaningful participation and real-world impact.

Get in touch to collaborate with MWE

Whether you’re a public health programme, laboratory, or kit provider, we’re keen to explore ways to support accessible and effective cervical screening.

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FDA 510(k) Clearance for Transport System for Stool Culture

Medical Wire & Equipment (MWE) is pleased to confirm that the FECAL TRANSWAB® with Liquid Cary Blair Medium Specimen Collection and Transport System is FDA 510(k) cleared for preserving the viability fecal specimens during transport to the laboratory for microbiological testing.

Evidence-Based Performance

The FDA 510(k) clearance follows analytical validation and a 10-organism test panel, representing clinically relevant targets encountered in gastrointestinal infection workflows.

Performance testing demonstrated:

• Reliable recovery of aerobic, anaerobic and fastidious organisms
• High performance in Campylobacter transport
• Clostridium recovery in 24 hours
• All other organisms recovered at 48 hours

Designed for Laboratory Workflows

The cleared system can be used to collect stool specimens directly from a patient as a rectal swab or to transfer material from an existing stool sample. Specimens are processed according to standard clinical microbiology procedures, requiring no changes in laboratory workflow.

Transport and Storage Efficiency

A key advantage of FECAL TRANSWAB® with Liquid Cary Blair Medium is its ability to maintain performance at room temperature, helping to reduce reliance on refrigerated logistics. When combined with a 24-month shelf life, this supports practical inventory management for hospitals, public health networks and reference laboratories.

A Global Solution, Now Cleared in the U.S.

Already established across Europe, Asia, Australasia and major global health institutions, FECAL TRANSWAB® with Liquid Cary Blair Medium now joins MWE’s growing portfolio of FDA-cleared systems designed to support routine diagnostics and infectious disease surveillance.

MWE will work with U.S. healthcare providers, distribution partners and public laboratories to support implementation and availability nationwide.

Get in touch to be a part of this exciting expansion.

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Advancing Reliable Transport for Fecal Specimens

The FECAL TRANSWAB® with Liquid Cary Blair Medium for Specimen Collection and Transport System is currently under FDA 510(k) review in the United States. Already adopted extensively across Europe, Asia, Australasia and by global healthcare organisations, this pending clearance represents the next step in supporting laboratories that routinely process fecal specimens for microbiological investigation.

Supporting High-Quality Stool Culture Workflows

Fecal testing remains central to diagnosing gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria, parasites and other clinically relevant microorganisms. When samples are not transported effectively, laboratory recovery and patient outcomes can be compromised.

FECAL TRANSWAB® with Liquid Cary Blair Medium is designed to preserve the viability of fecal specimens after collection and during transportation to the laboratory. Samples can be collected directly from patients using the swab as a rectal swab or transferred from a stool sample using a standard laboratory workflow.

Practical Benefits for Transport and Storage

Room-temperature performance is of growing interest to laboratories and health systems seeking to reduce logistical costs. FECAL TRANSWAB® with Liquid Cary Blair Medium supports room-temperature transport and storage, with the option for refrigeration when required. Combined with a 24-month shelf life, the device offers workflow efficiency both inside and outside of the laboratory.

Looking Ahead

Pending FDA 510(k) clearance creates momentum for broader availability of FECAL TRANSWAB® with Liquid Cary Blair Medium in the United States. If approved, laboratories seeking reliable stool collection and transport solutions will gain access to a device already trusted internationally and supported by extensive validation data.

Medical Wire & Equipment (MWE) will announce and share further details upon completion of the review.

Get in touch with the MWE USA team for more information.

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The current 2025 flu season in the UK is proving unusually harsh and early, with hospital admissions surging far beyond normal expectations. According to the latest data from NHS England, an average of 1,717 patients per day were occupying hospital beds with flu during the week leading up to early December.

That figure marks a 56% increase compared with the same week in 2024, when roughly 1,098 flu patients were hospitalised daily, and is dramatically higher than at the same point in 2023 (~ 243) or 2022 (~ 772). Among these hospitalised patients, 69 were in critical care, a sharp increase from 39 in critical care at this time last year.

Health official warnings suggest this surge may be only the beginning: flu season “started unusually early this year” and “has yet to peak,” raising fears of further hospital pressure heading into the winter holidays.

One report noted last winter’s pressure on the wider healthcare system: from 2024 to 2025, the flu reportedly caused 7,757 excess deaths in England, more than double the 3,555 recorded the previous year, though this remains below the peak seen in 2022-23.

Additionally, the strain on services has not been limited to flu. Emergency departments have also faced heavier demand from other seasonal viruses (like norovirus and RSV) and non-urgent cases, further compounding capacity issues.

What This Means for Sampling & Diagnostics This Flu Season

With such a steep rise in flu hospitalisations, especially early in the season and before the usual winter peak, there is a heightened demand for diagnostic testing, early detection, and efficient sampling to support patient management and infection control.

This is where SIGMA-VIROCULT® comes in as a valuable asset:

• As a viral specimen collection and transport medium, SIGMA VIROCULT® enables safe, reliable collection and transport of respiratory samples (e.g. throat or nasal swabs), maintaining viral integrity from bedside to lab.

• In a high-pressure environment with rapidly increasing hospital flu cases, having robust, easy-to-use sampling kits helps healthcare providers scale up testing, facilitating prompt diagnosis, cohorting of patients, and effective infection-control measures.

• By supporting efficient sampling throughput, SIGMA-VIROCULT® can reduce diagnostic delays, enabling hospitals to better manage the surge in admissions and potentially reduce onward transmission, which is especially critical when the system is near capacity.

• SIGMA-VIROCULT® is compatible with POCT systems, allowing rapid screening within busy hospital A&E departments.

Why Early, High-Volume Flu Season Sampling Matters More Than Ever

Given that this season has started earlier than usual and hospital occupancy for flu is already at record levels for this time of year, the need for rapid, high-volume testing and sampling is more important than ever.

• Early detection helps ensure that vulnerable patients (e.g. older adults) are identified quickly and receive appropriate care, possibly preventing progression to critical illness.

• Faster sample processing helps hospitals make informed bed-management decisions and avoid unnecessary spread within wards.

• In the context of coinciding pressures from flu, RSV, norovirus, and even ongoing COVID or respiratory virus activity, diagnostic clarity becomes vital to triage, isolate, and treat effectively.

Using tools like SIGMA-VIROCULT® can make a real difference in managing testing loads and supporting overworked labs and hospital teams.

What Does This Mean For You?

The current UK flu season appears on course to be among the toughest in recent years, thanks to an unusually early start, sharply rising hospital admissions, and a system already stretched by other seasonal viruses and non-urgent demand. The statistics are stark: a 56% increase in hospital flu cases over last year, critical care numbers rising, and thousands of excess deaths last winter.

In this context, reliable, scalable sampling systems like SIGMA-VIROCULT® are convenient and essential. They offer a practical way to manage the diagnostic burden, safeguard hospital capacity, and help healthcare workers respond quickly to what could become one of the worst flu seasons in decades.

Interested in this product? Contact us for more details

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References: Sky News  | The Guardian | Northern Times | The Standard | UK Gov | SIGMA-VIROCULT® POCT POSTER

Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogenic bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection particularly dangerous to pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Listeriosis can lead to severe illness or even death, making it one of the most closely monitored foodborne pathogens worldwide.

Unlike many bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes can survive and multiply in cold, moist environments – even in refrigerated conditions. It often hides in food production areas, thriving on stainless steel, conveyor belts, drains, and other damp surfaces where residues of food or moisture remain. This resilience means it can persist unnoticed, contaminating ready-to-eat (RTE) foods such as cooked meats, dairy products, and salads.

Routine sampling for Listeria is therefore essential, not just for regulatory compliance, but to prevent contamination before it reaches consumers. The recent EU and UK legislation updates around RTE foods have increased expectations for more extensive and routine sampling, emphasising environmental verification as a key step in food safety management.

How to Keep Ready-to-Eat Foods Safe and Compliant

For food producers, caterers, and processors, the focus on Listeria monocytogenes control has never been greater. The goal is to detect contamination early, before it can enter the food chain. With evolving regulations and growing scrutiny, laboratories and manufacturers need fast, reliable, and safe ways to monitor food contact surfaces and production environments.

To meet this need, Medical Wire & Equipment Ltd has developed ENVIRO-KIT™ LISTERIA which is an innovative, easy-to-use environmental testing system designed to make compliance and control more achievable for every food business.

ENVIRO-KIT™ LISTERIA is an Innovative Listeria Testing Kit

The ENVIRO-KIT™ LISTERIA system provides rapid detection of Listeria monocytogenes, offering clear visual results within 24 to 48 hours. A colour change from straw to black indicates a positive result, giving a quick and confident indication of contamination risk.

The kit is a two-part system, comprising:

• A pre-moistened, tubed STERISWAB™ for consistent and reliable sample collection.
• A liquid, colour-changing incubation vial, which remains securely in the laboratory for safe testing.

Only the tubed pre-moistened swab enters the food preparation area, minimising contamination risk. Once sampling is complete, the swab is returned to the lab and transferred into the ENVIRO-KIT™ LISTERIA detection vial for incubation and analysis.

Why Incubation at 37°C Matters

Accuracy in Listeria detection depends on incubation temperature. ENVIRO-KIT™ LISTERIA is incubated at 37°C, replicating the human body temperature where Listeria monocytogenes would naturally grow during infection. This ensures the test identifies the pathogenic strain relevant to human health, as opposed to environmental species that may not pose the same risk.

Testing at lower temperatures can lead to false negatives, so maintaining 37°C incubation provides results you can trust when assessing the safety of RTE food environments.

Supporting Consistency and Compliance

ENVIRO-KIT™ LISTERIA specifically targets Listeria monocytogenes, the species responsible for human disease, helping businesses align with EU Ready-to-Eat (RTE) food regulations.

To ensure consistency across shifts and teams, MWE also recommends using a sampling template to define a standard 100 cm² area. This guarantees repeatable, comparable results for ongoing environmental monitoring. The template is supplied in an Easy-Open bag format, making it practical to use and store on site.

Why You Should Consider ENVIRO-KIT™ LISTERIA for Your Listeria Testing

• Rapid detection of Listeria monocytogenes within 24–48 hours.
• Colour-change system (straw → black) provides clear visual interpretation.
• Pre-moistened tubed swab enables accurate, consistent surface sampling.
• Separate incubation vial minimises contamination in sampling areas.
• Incubation at 37°C mirrors human infection conditions for reliable results.
• Liquid samples are PCR-compatible for species confirmation.
• Supports EU/UK RTE food legislation compliance for environmental monitoring.
  

A Smarter Way to Safeguard Your Production Environment

The food industry’s responsibility to prevent Listeria contamination is greater than ever. ENVIRO-KIT™ LISTERIA combines MWE’s microbiological expertise with practical design, giving food manufacturers and laboratories a safe, rapid, and compliant solution for routine environmental testing.

Whether monitoring factory surfaces, catering kitchens, or cafeterias, ENVIRO-KIT™ LISTERIA helps you identify risks early, take corrective action faster, and ensure that every product leaving your facility is safe for your customers.

Interested in this product? Contact us for more details

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Meeting the Future of Diagnostics at IBMS Congress 2025

IBMS Congress 2025, held in Birmingham, brought together leading voices in laboratory learning to explore the latest developments in diagnostics, automation, and molecular science.

The exhibition provided an ideal setting to engage with biomedical scientists, clinicians, and partners, discussing shared challenges and emerging solutions shaping the future of diagnostic workflows.

Automation, AI, and Point of Care Testing Take Centre Stage

Across four days, conversations on the exhibition floor reflected a clear industry focus on point of care testing, PCR, and AI-driven automation to improve efficiency and reliability. Delegates showed particular interest in MWE’s U-SWAB VAGINAL and U-SWAB MRSA self-collection devices, which support the growing shift toward patient-centred and decentralised testing.

These discussions highlighted laboratories’ ongoing need for validated, rapid, and easy-to-use collection systems that maintain specimen integrity while streamlining workflows.

Reliable Transport Media for Every Workflow: The SIGMA Range

The SIGMA Range continued to be a major talking point among professionals seeking reliable transport media that perform consistently across microbiological and molecular applications. As laboratories look to integrate more automation and multiplex technologies, the SIGMA Range remains a trusted standard for ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Together, these interactions reinforced MWE’s role in supporting laboratories through each stage of diagnostic evolution, from sample collection to analytical processing.

Scientific Insights: HPV, Candida auris, and Gastrointestinal Pathogens

The scientific lecture programme underscored the ongoing importance of microbial surveillance and molecular insight. Topics including Mycoplasma, N. gonorrhoeae, Candida auris, HPV, and gastrointestinal pathogens reflected the broad diagnostic landscape served by MWE’s product portfolio. Hearing these insights firsthand reinforced the company’s commitment to developing robust pre-analytical tools that meet the demands of modern diagnostics.

A Strong Start for MWE’s Growing UK Team

IBMS 2025 also provided valuable opportunities for the MWE team to engage with new and existing customers, strengthening relationships and gathering feedback to inform future product development. The team left the event encouraged by the enthusiasm and shared commitment to innovation across the diagnostics community.

Talk to Us About Your Diagnostic Workflows

Missed us at Congress? Get in touch to talk to the MWE team about your diagnostic workflows and how our self-collection and transport media solutions can help your laboratory stay future-ready.

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Disease X Preparedness: Why Transport Media Choice Matters

At the 2025 European Society for Clinical Virology (ESCV) Congress, one theme echoed throughout the scientific programme and the exhibition floor: preparedness for Disease X. Defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a serious international epidemic caused by an unknown pathogen, Disease X represents not just a hypothetical threat but an inevitability.

For clinical microbiologists, virologists, and laboratory managers, this means ensuring that frontline tools are ready before the next outbreak emerges. Central to this readiness is the choice of transport medium, the bridge between patient sample and diagnostic result. Media that balances biosafety, stability, and molecular integrity could help shape the global response to future pandemics.

Why Transport Media is a Cornerstone of Preparedness

During an outbreak, every hour counts. Rapid and reliable sample collection, inactivation, and preservation are vital to both protecting laboratory personnel and enabling timely diagnosis. Traditional transport media have often relied on cold-chain logistics to maintain sample integrity, posing challenges in field diagnostics, resource-limited regions, and large-scale surveillance programmes.

The ideal solution must not only preserve RNA and DNA for molecular analysis but also ensure operator safety by inactivating infectious agents. At ESCV, delegates turned to Medical Wire & Equipment Co. (Bath) Ltd (MWE) to discuss exactly these challenges, and the solutions already available.

SIGMA MM™: Frontline Safety and Stability

MWE presented new evidence on SIGMA-MM™ Molecular Medium, detailed in the study Evaluation of Σ-MM™ Molecular Medium for the stability of SARS-CoV-2 virus for up to 90 days at different temperatures.

Key findings include:

• Rapid inactivation: SIGMA-MM™ inactivates pathogens within 60 seconds, safeguarding staff while preserving nucleic acids.

• Long-term stability: Viral RNA remained intact for up to 90 days at room temperature, eliminating reliance on cold-chain infrastructure.

• Versatility: Compatible with molecular testing platforms, supporting point-of-care diagnostics, outbreak investigations, and global surveillance.

The study concluded that SIGMA-MM™ is a safe, stable, and effective transport medium for diagnostics. These qualities make it ideally suited for pandemic preparedness and routine testing alike. As unknown threats loom, SIGMA-MM™ provides laboratories with a reliable first line of defence, ensuring that high-risk samples can be safely processed without compromising downstream analysis.

In short, Σ-MM™ is a medium that labs should be stocking now to strengthen preparedness for Disease X.

SIGMA VIROCULT®: Proven Viral Transport

Preparedness is multi-layered. While inactivation is essential in many contexts, virology labs also require dependable media for viral recovery, culture, and detection. Here, SIGMA-VIROCULT® remains a trusted standard.

Validated across multiple platforms, including the Bosch Vivalytic analyser, SIGMA VIROCULT® ensures robust viral transport and high recovery rates. It is widely adopted by diagnostic laboratories worldwide for both routine and emergency testing.

Together, SIGMA-MM™ and SIGMA-VIROCULT® provide complementary solutions:

• SIGMA-MM™ for inactivation, molecular stability, and safe field diagnostics.

• SIGMA-VIROCULT® for accurate viral transport and culture workflows.

This dual approach equips laboratories with flexibility and resilience, ensuring readiness for both known and unknown viral threats.

Moving Towards Disease X Readiness

As the discussions at ESCV highlighted, Disease X is not a question of if but when. Preparing laboratories, supply chains, and diagnostic networks is the responsibility of today’s scientific community. The right transport media are a small but vital piece of this preparedness puzzle.

By adopting solutions such as SIGMA-MM™ and SIGMA-VIROCULT®, laboratories can safeguard staff, preserve sample integrity, and accelerate accurate diagnosis. The time to act is now, before the next outbreak emerges.

Download the Σ-MM™ study or contact the MWE team to learn more about how these products can strengthen your laboratory’s readiness for Disease X.

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From 17–20 September, our team had the pleasure of attending the European Society for Clinical Virology (ESCV) Conference in Thessaloniki, Greece. This specialist international event brought together around 600 delegates, all focused on the latest advances and challenges in virology.

For MWE, ESCV is a vital opportunity to introduce our solutions to new virologists, strengthen relationships with dealers and distributors across global supply chains, and contribute to important scientific conversations about the future of diagnostics and pandemic preparedness.

Showcasing Innovation at Booth E3

Representing MWE at Booth E3 were Richard Seuke (Export Sales Director) and Richard Farmer (Export Sales Manager), who welcomed delegates from across the world to discuss our sampling and transport solutions.

Our SIGMA liquid range drew particular attention, with SIGMA-VIROCULT® and SIGMA-MM™ taking centre stage in discussions around pandemic preparedness and Disease X.

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of a scientific poster from the University of Crete, where researchers Giasemi Eptaminitaki, Alexandros Zafiropoulos, and George Sourvinos demonstrated the stability of SARS-CoV-2 in clinical samples using Σ-MM™ inactivation medium at both room temperature and -80°C over 90 days. Their findings reinforced the critical role of both SIGMA MM™ and SIGMA VIROCULT® in preparedness strategies should the next pandemic strike.

From Disease X to AI Diagnostics

The ESCV programme explored several timely themes. Some highlights include:

• Future pandemics and preparedness, including strategies for responding to unknown pathogens.
• Seasonal respiratory viruses, with heightened focus as the northern hemisphere enters winter and demand for sampling increases.
• Advances in diagnostics, including tools incorporating AI to support faster, more accurate detection.

These discussions aligned perfectly with MWE’s mission: to provide resilient, reliable solutions for virology sampling and transport. The University of Crete’s work with Σ-MM™ was an especially strong validation of how our products can help laboratories face these challenges with confidence.

Conversations Beyond the Stand

ESCV also gave us the chance to connect directly with virologists, laboratories, and distributors, sparking insightful conversations about real-world challenges in diagnostics.

Delegates were particularly interested in how SIGMA-MM™ supports safe, effective inactivation of pathogens – a key factor in pandemic preparedness when the identity of a pathogen may be unknown. We also introduced the virology community to our U-SWAB™ Self-Collection range, expanding the conversation into the growing area of flexible, patient-led diagnostics.

Looking Ahead

Our team left Thessaloniki inspired and energised by the connections made and the innovative science presented. We’re already looking forward to continuing these conversations and showcasing more of our microbiology solutions at Medica in Düsseldorf, Germany (17–20 November 2025).

Didn’t make it to the booth? Get in touch with us today to discuss how MWE’s solutions can support your virology and diagnostic workflows.

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Medical Wire & Equipment (MWE) has launched a new suite of self-collection solutions, developed to support mass screening programmes and improve access to early diagnostics. These devices are optimised for room-temperature transport, lab automation, and patient usability, helping healthcare systems meet the growing demand for flexible, decentralised testing.

U-SWAB™ VAGINAL Supporting HPV Screening with Confidence

The U-SWAB™ VAGINAL is a simple, dry swab designed for self-collection of specimens from lining of the vagina. Housed in a secure transport tube, it allows women to collect samples comfortably at home and send them directly to the lab.

With cervical cancer and HPV remaining leading global health concerns, many individuals avoid screenings due to discomfort, inconvenience, or cultural barriers. U-SWAB™ VAGINAL offers an alternative that combines privacy, accuracy, and ease.

Key Features:

• Dry, tubed vaginal swab – ready for lab analysis
• Clear, simple instructions for self-use
• Room-temperature storage and transport
• Designed for comfort, privacy, and accessibility

Self-Collection U-SWAB™ MRSA to Support Pre-Op and Community Testing

Also launching is MWE’s U-SWAB™ MRSA Self-Collection Range, which features colour-coded swabs for sampling specific body sites such as nasal, armpit, or groin. Ideal for pre-operative testing, this solution reduces the need for in-person clinic visits. Saving patient travel time, reducing hospital congestion, and freeing up clinical resources.

People undergoing surgery are at a higher risk if they contract MRSA infection. Pre-operative screening for MRSA can identify patients carrying the bacteria, allowing preventive measures prior to admission, or segregation if admission cannot be delayed, and reducing the risk of infection spreading to other patients.

Key Benefits:

• Liquid swabs in distinct colours for anatomical sites
• Marked for colour-blind accessibility
• Reliable sample integrity for remote or in-home collection
• Compatible with MRSA screening workflows in hospital and community settings

U-SWAB™ FECAL Coming Soon

MWE are developing a self-collection device for reliable stool sampling at home, with the upcoming launch of U-SWAB™ FECAL. Stool testing plays a critical role in detecting gastrointestinal bleeding, inflammation, and infections, enabling early diagnosis of conditions such as colorectal cancer, IBD, and bacterial enteric infections. U-SWAB™ FECAL will support this with a discreet, easy-to-use device that ensures specimen integrity during room-temperature transport to the lab.

Interested in the development of U-SWAB™? Get in touch to schedule a call with our team.

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Strengthening Global Partnerships

Last week, we were delighted to welcome two of our valued international distributors, Check Diagnostics GmbH and Iwaki & Co Ltd., to our UK headquarters for a day visit filled with insight, collaboration, and future planning.

Each visit included a tour of our production site, warehouse facilities, and new office spaces, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the scale and care behind our operations. It was a pleasure to discuss product developments, market insights, and our shared vision for the future.

Together, we explored upcoming product developments, discussed market trends, and aligned on strategic goals for the years ahead. These visits are a meaningful part of how we build strong, lasting and transparent partnerships, founded on collaboration, and innovation.

Thank you to the teams at Check Diagnostics and Iwaki Co Ltd. for making the journey. We look forward to everything we’ll achieve together in the future.

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Why Food Pathogen Detection Is More Critical Than Ever

Food safety remains a critical concern for manufacturers and regulators worldwide. With increasing pressure to maintain hygienic standards, the food industry is seeing a rise in awareness around microbial risks, particularly from pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli. These microorganisms can thrive in environments where traditional cleaning and monitoring methods may fall short, especially when hidden in hard-to-reach places or protected by biofilms.

The challenge isn’t just killing pathogens, it’s finding them.

In modern production environments, identifying contamination requires sampling tools that are easy to use, reliable under pressure, and designed for the realities of today’s complex facilities. That’s where innovative environmental monitoring tools come in, like our newly expanded POLYWIPE™ Range, now available in an Easy Open Bag, which can be used as a glove and stomacher bag.

Streamline Environmental Sampling with POLYWIPE™ Easy Open Bag

This latest addition to the POLYWIPE™ range offers a pre-moistened blue sponge swab inside an easy-open stomacher bag, designed to streamline the sampling process while reducing the risk of contamination during transfer. It’s available with buffer options such as NRS II™ (Neutralising Rinse Solution) and saline, making it adaptable to different food environments.

NRS II™: Improve Accuracy by Neutralising Residual Cleaning Agents

NRS II™ plays a critical role in ensuring accurate sampling. In many cases, residual cleaning agents can neutralise or destroy microbes before they are cultured in the lab, leading to misleadingly “clean” results. NRS II™ neutralises these residuals, helping you recover true microbial loads—even in heavily sanitised zones. It also penetrates those difficult and irregular surfaces where bacteria can linger, making it an essential tool in any robust hygiene monitoring protocol.

Targeted Environmental Sampling with STERISWAB™

While POLYWIPE™ is ideal for large surface areas and processing zones, STERISWAB™ is your go-to solution for precise point sampling. This swab offers a sterile, easy-to-handle format perfect for routine environmental surveillance and targeted investigations. Whether monitoring machinery touchpoints, conveyor belts, or high-risk contact surfaces, STERISWAB™ delivers confidence in your sampling outcomes.

New Listeria Legislation: What Food Businesses Need to Know

As regulation tightens, accurate testing becomes even more critical. From July 1, 2026, new EU legislation will require food businesses to take greater responsibility for Listeria monocytogenes across the entire supply chain. Stricter microbiological criteria will apply, particularly to ready-to-eat foods. If manufacturers cannot prove that Listeria levels remain below 100 cfu/g for the duration of a product’s shelf life, they must meet a stricter “absence in 25g” rule throughout. These new rules place even greater emphasis on precise, reliable sampling methods.

Next-Generation Swabs for Food Pathogen Detection

As food manufacturing standards evolve, we’re not stopping here. We’re currently developing a new generation of swabs and liquid transport media designed to enhance pathogen detection through improved sample collection and targeted culturing. These swabs will support even greater accuracy in detecting pathogens, providing faster, clearer answers when they matter most.

Smarter Sampling for a Safer Food Industry

Every product we offer is built around a central mission: helping food manufacturers uphold the highest safety standards while making sampling easier, faster, and more effective. In the battle against foodborne illness, smarter tools make a measurable difference.

With the introduction of the POLYWIPE™ Easy Open Bag, the powerful utility of NRS II™, the precision of STERISWAB™, and new innovations on the horizon, we’re giving you everything you need to detect threats before they reach consumers.

Upgrade your toolkit with smarter sampling solutions and contact us today

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We are thrilled to announce that Sadia Iqbal and Adum Ahmed have joined Medical Wire & Equipment Ltd. as our new UK Account Managers, effective from 12th May 2025. Their appointments mark an exciting phase of growth for MWE as we continue to expand our presence across the UK and strengthen support for our valued customers.

Sadia Iqbal –  South UK Account Manager

Sadia brings over 13 years of experience as an IBMS and HCPC-registered Specialist Biomedical Scientist, specialising in Medical Microbiology within NHS Clinical Laboratories. Her professional journey includes achieving the IBMS Higher Specialist Diploma in Medical Microbiology, and she is working towards becoming a Chartered Biomedical Scientist.

Sadia’s deep-rooted understanding of diagnostic workflows and microbiology practices makes her an ideal partner for Clinical, Food, and Veterinary laboratories. She is eager to meet new and existing customers across the South of the UK to learn about your needs and ensure MWE’s products continue to provide robust, reliable solutions for today’s laboratory challenges and those of the future.

Adum Ahmed – North UK Account Manager

Based near Glasgow, Adum brings a wealth of scientific knowledge and product expertise. With an MSc in Advanced Biomedical Science and a BSc (Hons) in Applied Biomedical Science, Adum has over 5 years of laboratory experience across various biomedical disciplines.

Adum is no stranger to MWE products and the wider market landscape. He has long aspired to move into a commercial role where he can combine his scientific expertise with customer engagement. His passion and energy make him a strong asset to our growing team, and he’s excited to support laboratories across the North of the UK—especially as MWE prepares to launch several innovative products in the coming years.

Let’s Connect

Both Sadia and Adum are enthusiastic about connecting with our customers, listening to your feedback, and helping you find the best solutions for your laboratory needs. Whether you’re looking to improve your environmental monitoring, enhance your infection control strategy, or learn more about self-collection and automation-ready products, our new Account Managers are here to help.

Join us in welcoming Sadia and Adum to MWE. We look forward to the future as we work together toward shared success.

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Welcome Dean Uddin to MWE

We’re excited to welcome Dean Uddin to the team at MWE as our new UK Sales Manager. Dean brings with him a wealth of experience in sales leadership, business development, and team management, alongside a strong track record of driving growth and building successful partnerships across the life sciences and analytical sectors.

A Career Built on Leadership and Strategy

With over 15 years in commercial roles, Dean has consistently led high-performing teams, opened up new market opportunities, and delivered strategic sales initiatives with measurable results. His ability to pair commercial acumen with a customer-first mindset has been key to delivering sustained business success and strengthening client relationships.

Scientific Expertise with a Commercial Edge

Dean holds an MSc in Forensic Document Analysis and a BSc (Hons) in Forensic Science from the University of Central Lancashire. Starting out in a scientific and laboratory setting, he soon found his passion for problem-solving and communication led him toward sales and business development. This unique combination of hands-on technical understanding and commercial expertise allows Dean to effectively support customers in finding the right solutions for their needs.

Looking Ahead at MWE

In his new role at MWE, Dean is looking forward to supporting his team, building strong relationships, and contributing to the company’s continued success and growth. He’s especially focused on working collaboratively with colleagues, connecting with customers, and identifying new opportunities to expand MWE’s reach and impact.

“I’m really excited to be joining MWE at such an important time for the company. I look forward to working with the team and our customers to build on the company’s strong reputation and explore new opportunities for growth,” Dean shared.

Join Us in Welcoming Dean

We’re delighted to have Dean on board and look forward to the energy, insight, and leadership he brings to the role. Be sure to connect with him and say hello, he’s keen to meet colleagues and customers across the UK in the coming weeks!

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Reflecting on IPC (Infection Prevention and Control) Birmingham 2025

Last week, our team attended the Infection Prevention and Control Conference in Birmingham as proud exhibitors, joining infection prevention and control professionals from across the UK for a day filled with insight, innovation, and valuable conversations.

Showcasing Solutions for Environmental Monitoring and MRSA Screening

At our stand, we highlighted tools designed to support both proactive environmental monitoring and efficient patient screening. These included our POLYWIPE™ Easy Open Bag, STERISWAB™, and NRS™—all ideal for verifying the effectiveness of cleaning protocols in healthcare settings, food production, and beyond.

We also featured SIGMA TRANSWAB® for MRSA screening, which is used by clinicians for routine specimen collection, and our self-collection format, U-SWAB™ MRSA, designed to make specimen collection easier, faster, and more comfortable for patients.

Conversations That Sparked Ideas

Throughout the event, we spoke with a wide range of professionals, including IPC Leads, hospital-based infection control teams, and many community nurses. One recurring theme was how visual checks are still the norm for cleaning verification, with microbiological testing often only triggered after an outbreak. There was a clear interest in more preventative, routine monitoring – and that’s exactly where our solutions can support.

Unlike systems that simply give a bacteria count, POLYWIPE™ allows users to know exactly what pathogens are present after incubation, helping teams take action before problems escalate. A convenient method for effective and accurate microbiological surveillance. 

Supporting Patient-Centred Care with Self-Collection

We were particularly encouraged by the response to our U-SWAB™ MRSA self-collection system. Many IPC and community nurses commented that this solution could significantly reduce the need for patients to travel for pre-op screening – especially important for those in remote areas or with mobility issues. They also noted it could offer a more dignified and comfortable experience, while easing the pressure on stretched clinical teams.

Looking Ahead

IPC Birmingham confirmed just how crucial it is to keep pushing forward – both in environmental infection prevention and in making screening more accessible and patient-friendly. We’re proud to be part of that movement and grateful for everyone who took the time to stop by our stand.

If you’d like to know more about how our products can support your infection prevention strategy – whether in a hospital, care home, or out in the community – please get in touch.

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Running for a Cause: Hannah and Ella Broggio Take on the 2025 London Marathon

This time last weekend, 27th April 2025, MWE’s own Hannah Broggio (Director) and her daughter Ella took on the incredible challenge of running the 2025 London Marathon. A momentous achievement on its own, but even more inspiring knowing they did it for a meaningful cause. We caught up with Hannah to hear all about their journey, from training to finish line celebrations.

Q: What inspired you and Ella to participate in the 2025 London Marathon?

Hannah: Ella and I wanted to do something together that really challenged us. A few years ago, she trekked Kilimanjaro with her dad, this time it was my turn! When we were given the opportunity to run the marathon, I jumped at it. Ella had to think about it for a little while… but of course, she said yes!

Q: You fundraised for the charity Get A-Head. Why did you choose this one?

Hannah: Get A-Head is a marvellous charity supporting patients with head and neck diseases, and the people who care for them. They fund vital equipment, research, and education that isn’t always covered by the NHS. It’s a cause that really resonated with us, and we wanted to use this opportunity to support their life-changing work.

“We’ve made it our mission at Get A-Head to raise vital funds to directly help improve the quality of life for patients suffering from head and neck diseases and those who care for them.” – Get A-Head Foundation

Q: How much have you raised so far?

Hannah: We’re currently just over £2,000, and we’re hopeful more donations will come in soon. MWE has generously agreed to match the final amount we raise, which is just incredible.

Q: How did you and Ella prepare for the physical and mental challenge?

Hannah: I run regularly anyway, but training for a marathon is still a big commitment. It’s a challenge to fit in those longer runs, fuel properly, avoid injury, and most importantly, enjoy the process. It’s about building both physical endurance and mental resilience. It’s really a unique experience.

Q: What was the most challenging part on the day?

Hannah: The heat was a big factor this year! We both made sure to stay hydrated throughout the course and pace ourselves. We wanted to take it all in and enjoy the unique atmosphere, even when it got tough.

Q: How did it feel to cross the finish line?

Hannah: It’s emotional! Exhaustion and elation hit all at once. You feel immense pride and relief… and then there’s the medal! But more than anything, it’s the thought of all the people who’ve supported and donated—it really keeps you going to the very end.

Q: Was this your first marathon?

Hannah: It was Ella’s first and she was amazing. This was my second time running London, and my fourth marathon overall.

Q: So, would you do it again?

Hannah: Yes, yes, yes. All day long!

Congratulations to Hannah and Ella for this incredible achievement. And thank you for inspiring all of us with your determination, energy, and heart.

If you’d like to contribute to their fundraising total, donations are still welcome!

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As ESCMID 2025 is now over, we’re reflecting on one of the most exciting and energising events in our calendar. Thank you to everyone who visited our booth, shared insights, and helped shape the future of diagnostics, infection prevention, and environmental sampling.

Whether you were drawn in by our new product launches, recognised our classic innovations like POLYWIPE™, or stopped by to discuss the challenges you face in the lab, it was a pleasure to meet you.

Here are some of the highlights from the conference:

Launching Innovation for Self-Collection: SampleSUITE™ & U-SWAB™ 

This year’s big reveal was our SampleSuite range, a family of no-swab specimen collection devices that simplify sample processing while keeping results reliable. From SalivaPOD™ to CapillaryPOD™ and StoolPOD™, SampleSUITE™ is designed for real-world needs with room-temperature storage, ease of use, and lab efficiency.

We also introduced our three-tier Self-Collection Range:

• Good: Dry collection and transport – cost-effective and easy to use.

• Better: Liquid collection and transport – ideal for infectious disease screening

• Best: Our most advanced system – a swab-free device for true collection-to-lab simplicity

All products are engineered with both patients and professionals in mind, because empowering healthcare means meeting users where they are. More products across Good, Better and Best coming soon.

Environmental Sampling in Focus

Many of you were keen to learn more about our environmental sampling tools, particularly:

• POLYWIPE™ –  pre-moistened sponge swabs ideal for surface sampling in pharma, food, and healthcare environments

• NRSII™ – specially formulated to neutralise common disinfectants for accurate microbial recovery

• STERISWAB™ – for sterile surface sampling in infection prevention and control settings

With cross-industry relevance from cleanrooms to hospital beds, these tools continue to lead the charge in contamination control and compliance.

Real Conversations, Meaningful Connections at ESCMID 2025

Throughout the week, we had powerful discussions on:

• Getting “Disease X Ready” and the role of microbiologists in pandemic resilience

• How transport media like SIGMA VIROCULT®, now validated for the Bosch Vivalytic Analyser, and SIGMA MM™ are evolving

• Understanding M40-A2 compliance when selecting your specimen collection and transport device.

Every conversation reinforced that what we do is about more than swabs, it’s about enabling smarter diagnostics, safer environments, and healthier communities.

📣 What’s Next?

We’ll be continuing the conversation post-ESCMID with:

• Educational blogs and infographics

• Deeper dives into SampleSUITE™, U-SWAB™ and other self-collection developments

• Continued partnerships across sectors who share our vision for sustainable, patient-centric innovation

Thank you again for being part of this milestone event. If we didn’t get a chance to speak at ESCMID, or if you’d like to continue the conversation, we’d love to hear from you.

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Medical Wire & Equipment Co Ltd and ConceptoMed AS Announce Strategic Distribution Partnership to Enhance Self-Collection sampling & transport to the Laboratory or Point of Care

Corsham, UK and Ballstad, Norway – 8th of April 2025

Medical Wire & Equipment Co Ltd (MWE), a leading manufacturer of specimen collection media/swabs, and ConceptoMed AS, an innovative medical device company, are pleased to announce a
strategic distribution partnership aimed at advancing Self-Collection and transportation of samples while improving patient outcomes globally.

Under this new collaboration, MWE and ConceptoMed will combine their expertise to develop and distribute cutting-edge Self-Collection devices that enhance the accuracy and efficiency of specimen collection and analysis. This partnership will leverage MWE’s extensive experience in manufacturing high-quality specimen collection and transportation media with ConceptoMed’s innovative technologies, such as the SalivaPOD®.

Key Highlights of the Partnership:

• Enhanced Diagnostic Accuracy: The integration of MWE’s specimen collection media with ConceptoMed’s Pending launch of SalivaPOD™ ECO, StoolPOD™, and CapillaryPOD™ devices will ensure optimal sample quality for Microbiology or PCR diagnostics, reducing contamination and improving test sensitivity.

• Removal of the Swab: ConceptoMed’s NEW specimen collection products, allow a sample to be taken without the need for a swab while promoting better patient safety and compliance.

• Global Reach: Both companies will utilise their established distribution networks to make these advanced diagnostic solutions available to healthcare providers and researchers worldwide, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes.

Quotes:

John Hanson, Sales and Marketing Director at MWE, stated, “We are excited to partner with ConceptoMed to bring innovative diagnostic solutions to the market. This collaboration aligns with our vision to ensure every sample is collected and transported in its optimum condition, enabling the most accurate and reliable results can be acted on.”

Christian Mide, CEO of ConceptoMed, added, “Our partnership with MWE represents a significant step forward in our mission to improve patient safety and diagnostic accuracy. Together, we will drive advancements in healthcare diagnosis and treatment.”

About Medical Wire & Equipment Co Ltd:

Medical Wire & Equipment Co Ltd (MWE) is a UK-based manufacturer specializing in swabs and specimen collection media for clinical, food, pharmaceutical, forensics, environmental, and research applications. With a commitment to quality and innovation, MWE’s products are used globally in over 120 countries

About ConceptoMed AS:

ConceptoMed AS is a Norwegian medical device company dedicated to developing innovative solutions that enhance patient safety, compliance
and diagnostic outcomes. Their product portfolio includes the SalivaPOD™ for saliva collection.

For media inquiries, please contact:

• Medical Wire & Equipment Co Ltd: [email protected]

• ConceptoMed AS: [email protected]

This partnership marks a significant milestone in the journey towards better diagnostic solutions and improved healthcare outcomes. Stay tuned for more updates on the exciting developments from MWE and ConceptoMed.

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Is Your Specimen Transport System M40-A2 Compliant? Here’s Why It Matters

We’ll be at ESCMID Global 2025, discussing why M40-A2 compliance is critical when selecting specimen collection and transport systems. Accurate diagnostics start with high-quality specimens, and the right transport system can mean the difference between reliable results and compromised patient care.

The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) M40-A2 standard sets rigorous quality control criteria to ensure microbiological transport devices preserve specimen integrity. Despite its importance, M40-A2 compliance is often overlooked. If you’re involved in specimen collection, transport, or diagnostics, understanding this standard is essential.

4 Key Reasons Why M40-A2 Compliance Matters

1️ Preserving Specimen Integrity – Ensures microorganism viability for accurate lab results.
2️ Reducing Diagnostic Risks – Minimises false negatives, misdiagnoses, and treatment delays.
3️ Standardisation & Reliability – Ensures reproducible results and regulatory confidence.
4️ Regulatory Assurance – Aligns with recognised standards for credibility and compliance.

Why This Matters for You

Specimen transport isn’t just about moving samples—it’s about preserving diagnostic accuracy. Non-compliant transport systems can lead to specimen degradation, false results, and wasted resources. M40-A2-compliant systems, such as MWE’s SIGMA TRANSWAB® and SIGMA Liquid Range, are rigorously validated to maintain microorganism viability over time and temperature variations.

Regulatory bodies, including the FDA, recognise M40-A2 as a benchmark for microbiological transport. Choosing a compliant system streamlines validation, enhances lab efficiency, and upholds the highest standards in patient care.

Visit Us at ESCMID 2025

If you want to learn more about M40-A2 compliance and how MWE integrates it across our product range, visit our booth at B74 and speak with our team.

🔬 Let’s talk about how M40-A2 compliance can improve your diagnostics!

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MWE Takes on the Bath Ultra Challenge for Julia’s House

We’re incredibly proud to share the results of our recent fundraising efforts for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, as four members of the Medical Wire & Equipment team laced up their running shoes and tackled the scenic and demanding Bath Ultra Challenge on 29th March 2025.

Taking place on a sunny weekend in the South West, the Ultra Challenge offered a variety of routes winding through the rolling hills and historic sights surrounding Bath. Team MWE took on two distances—with our Chairman Andrew Broggio and his wife, Hannah Broggio, completing the 10K route, while Amanda Nash (Regulatory Assurance Manager) and Caroline Hannay (Production Planning Manager) powered through the tougher 29K course.

Their efforts were all in aid of a very special cause: Julia’s House, a charity that provides essential care and support to children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions and their families, both at home and in their hospices.

The Challenge

The Bath Ultra Challenge is part of the UK Ultra Challenge Series, designed for walkers, joggers, and runners of all levels to push their limits for a good cause. Participants can choose distances ranging from 10K to a full 50K Ultra Marathon. This year’s route showcased the beauty of the Cotswold countryside with plenty of hills, fields, and breathtaking views.

For our team, it was a mix of physical stamina and emotional motivation. Together, they clocked up a combined 78 kilometres, driven by the desire to support a local charity close to our hearts.

Fundraising Success

Thanks to the generous support of friends, family, colleagues, and supporters, we are thrilled to report that we raised £235 for Julia’s House!

This total is a reflection of the team’s determination and the community’s generosity. Every donation, no matter how small, added up to something truly meaningful.

Where the Money Goes

Julia’s House relies on public donations for over 90% of its funding. The money we’ve raised will go toward providing critical services such as:

• Respite care for families needing a much-needed break

• Emergency support for children and their loved ones

• Therapies and play sessions that bring joy and comfort

• Support for siblings and bereavement counselling

• At-home care visits by specialist nurses and carers

Every pound makes a real difference in improving the quality of life for children with complex needs and ensuring their families are never alone on their journey.

Thank You

A massive thank you to everyone who supported our team—whether you donated, shared our fundraiser, or simply sent words of encouragement. And of course, a heartfelt well done to Andrew, Hannah, Amanda, and Caroline for stepping up to the challenge in support of such a worthwhile cause.

At MWE, we’re proud to be part of a community that cares. Supporting Julia’s House through the Bath Ultra Challenge has been an unforgettable experience—and we’re already thinking about our next adventure!

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