Specimen Collection Manual and Test Catalog

Swab in 1.0 mL in UTM.

Samples should be put in an inactivation vial prior to sending to GMC for testing. 

This test is restricted to Geisinger inpatients. 

The inactivation step must be performed under safety hood. The clinical sample and inactivation buffer vial must come to room temperature BEFORE use. 

Add 1 mL of the specimen eluted in UTM/VTM into the tube containing the Sample Inactivation Buffer; vortex for 5-10 seconds. Then let sit for 2 hours at room temperature.

Refrigerated at 2-8°C.

UTM: 3 hours at room temperature; 12 hours at 2-8°C after collection.
Inactivated sample: 2-8°C for 5 days; -20°C for 1 month.

Specimens that exceed stability limits. Specimens stored or transported at incorrect temperature. Swab specimens not transported in medium. Incorrect swabs.

If Detected: Indicates the detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigen and COVID-19 infection. Please isolate per guidelines and seek medical treatment as appropriate. Results should be interpreted with the clinical presentation and exposure history. Results reported to PADOH. 

If Not Detected: SARS-CoV-2 antigen was not detected. A negative test does not rule out COVID-19 infection. If you have had exposure to someone with known or possible COVID-19, please continue to quarantine from others despite negative test. Please continue to mask and consider re-testing by PCR if symptoms develop.

False negatives may occur due to improper collection.

Chemiluminescence immunoassay for the qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigen (nucleocapsid protein).

Covid Ag, Covid antigen, COVAG

The incubation period for COVID-19 is from 2-14 days following exposure. The nucleocapsid protein antigen is generally detectable in upper respiratory specimens during the acute phase of infection. Antigen testing is less sensitive than PCR testing for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection. False negatives may occur. Antigen test may be used to determine clearance of virus post infection.