Guidelines for the Collection of Suspect Norovirus Specimens

• Attempt to collect specimens within 48-72 hours of onset of illness or as directed by the Bureau of Epidemiology
• Collect as much stool as possible

Tips for collecting a stool specimen:

• Collecting stool can be difficult. Try to wear enclosed gloves, and ensure thorough hand washing upon completion.
• Place plastic wrap across the rim of the toilet, under the seat to collect stool specimen only (NO URINE). Use the enclosed tongue depressor to transfer the stool to the clean, sealable container before taking to the laboratory. Plastic wrap can also be used to line the diaper of an infant or toddler who is not yet using the toilet. This can be also be accomplished in a disposable, clean plastic container, etc. (i.e. Ziploc container, butter container, etc.).
• Important: Write on the containers your (or your child's) full name, and the date and time the sample was collected. If this is not done, the lab cannot do the test, and you will have to repeat the stool collection.
• Important: Do not use the collection containers with the green lids, or the scoop with those containers, as the preservative can inhibit Norovirus testing.
• Place fresh stool specimens, unmixed with urine, in the enclosed, clean, dry containers with the BLUE lid.
• Keep refrigerated. Place bagged and sealed specimens on ice or with frozen refrigerant packs in an insulated box.
• Return specimen to where collection kit was acquired, or as directed by the Bureau of Epidemiology.

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