Much surveillance testing is currently being done in the global effort to track the spread of H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus. Much of this testing has do be done in unusual situations, and for it to be reliable it is important that sample collection devices are suitable for both collection and transport of specimens.

This is where M W & E's more than 50 years of experience in this field counts. Not only do we manufacture Virocult®, the leading virus transport swab (with a range of standard and narrow shaft swab collectors), but our extensive range of Dry Swabs includes applicators usable in some of the most unusual and inaccessible situations.

Pernasal applicators consist of a very fine highly flexible twisted nichrome wire shaft with a tiny bud anchored on the end loop. The end is a loop, so there are no hidden sharp points lurking under the bud to injure birds or animals being sampled. (e.g. Product Code MW160)

ENT straight wire applicators have a straight wire aluminium shaft with long narrow bud suitable for throat and cloacal sampling in even tiny birds. (e.g. Product Code MW142)

Fine tip plastic applicators are also flexible and narrow suitable for tiny orifices. (e.g. Product Code MW100)

These swabs are available in a variety of formats to suit your particular circumstances. They can be supplied in bulk (loose in bags of 100), in individual peel pouches, or in individual labelled tubes (convenient for transport).

For further information, please refer to our website www.mwe.co.uk .

See also: Bird Flu? Trust Virocult®, the Superior Transport System for Influenza A and all other Respiratory Viruses previously published on www.rapidmicrobiology.com