The FDA has authorized a new sample type, the anterior nasal swab, for use with some EUA-authorized real-time RT-PCR assays for COVID-19 testing.
The use of anterior nasal swabs for SARS-CoV-2 testing offers many advantages over typical sample types, human oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal swab samples.
How are samples collected using anterior nasal swabs?
An anterior nasal swab is used to collect samples for COVID-19 testing by inserting a swab less than one inch into both nostrils while rotating it several times against the nasal wall.
This type of sample collection is less invasive and less uncomfortable for the patient than sampling from other upper airway sites.
Patients can collect their own samples
Under the supervision of a clinical administrator, individuals undergoing COVID-19 testing are able to wipe their own nostrils.
Reduced risk of infection to healthcare providers
Having participants swab their own nostrils reduces the risk of infection to health care providers.
Faster sampling time
