Getting the best sample for testing
Rinse your mouth with water and avoid eating or drinking for at least an hour before collecting your sample.
On the day of swabbing, steer clear of foods that can affect your sample, like pineapple and citrus.
No smoking or vaping for at least an hour before swabbing.
Avoid kissing for at least an hour before swabbing.
Hold the swab by the cap - only the tip should touch your mouth.
Collect your sample
Open the package and remove the swab without touching the sponge tip.
Position the swab inside your left cheek where saliva gathers, between the inner cheek and bottom jawline. Swipe back and forth 10 times. Repeat on your right cheek.
Hold the tube upright to prevent the liquid inside from spilling. Unscrew the blue cap without touching the sponge.
Insert the sponge into the tube, and close it tightly. Gently mix 15 times.
Write your legal last and first name, date of birth (MM/DD/YY), and date you collected the sample (MM/DD/YY) on the label provided. Use a pen (markers smudge).
MRN field: leave blank.
Place the label around your swab tube carefully, just below the closed lid.
Return your sample
Insert the tube into the provided biohazard bag.
Place the sealed bag into the kit.
Place the kit in the Fedex pack and seal the bag.
Complete the Fedex label and attach it to the bag.
Drop-off the bag at your nearest Fedex location. Find a drop off location