Proper Swab Type for Testing Respiratory Viral Pathogens

There are two different types of nasal swabs that may be used for respiratory viral pathogen testing by NICL.  Which is the correct swab type to use depends on the specific test being ordered.

• The only time when an ANTERIOR NASAL SWAB may be used is for SARS CoV-2 testing.  This type of swab cannot be used for Influenza, RSV, or other Respiratory Viral Pathogen testing.
• A NASOPHARYNGEAL SWAB must be used for all other respiratory viral pathogens, including influenza, RSV, and others.