The ability to perform definitive testing for pathogens that cause human and animal disease is a critical public health function. Rapid, accurate and sensitive testing of clinical specimens, environmental specimens, food, and water samples provides a scientific foundation for an appropriate public health response and can reduce disease prevalence and transmission.
Acceptable specimens
Specimens tested in the Biodefense Laboratory include:
- Blood collected in EDTA
- Serum
- Plasma
- Pleural Fluid
- Transtracheal aspirates/washes
- Sputum
- Fresh/frozen tissue
- Isolates
- Stool
- Gastric Contents
Please contact the Biodefense Laboratory if there are questions on which specimen type is suitable for the appropriate organism or toxin identification.
Collection
The Biodefense Laboratory has developed kits to assist clinical laboratories, hospitals and regional health departments with collection and submission of specimens.
Bacteriology mailers for sample specimen submission can be obtained from the NYS DOH order desk at (518) 474-4175. Other specimen packaging for agents such as Orthopox viruses can be obtained by contacting the Biodefense Laboratory (518) 402-4455
Shipping
All specimens and isolates are to be placed in UN approved containers and over-packing. IATA certified mailers are available from several commercial vendors. All packages should be labeled in accordance with current CDC Federal Regulation 42 CFR Part 73 and U.S. Postal Regulation 39 CFR Part iii.
Please contact the Biodefense Laboratory PRIOR to shipping.