How to Investigate Unexplained Respiratory Disease Outbreaks (URDO)

Specimen Collection & Handling

These guidelines were written for healthcare providers and public health staff to use during a respiratory disease outbreak when the pathogen is unknown. These guidelines cover general specimen collection, storage, and handling.

Specimen Collection Guidelines (150K, 8 pages)
The specimens listed in this document are those that may need to be collected to detect the etiologic agent during a respiratory disease outbreak.

Specimen Labeling, Storage, and Handling (60K, 7 pages)
Guidelines for storage and handling of clinical specimens during a respiratory disease outbreak when the pathogen is unknown.