NEISSERIA MENINGITIDIS SEROTYPING

Suspected colonies of meningococci may be submitted for identification. Confirmation of isolate identification will be performed biochemically.  Serotyping of all N. meningitidis isolates will be performed on all biochemically confirmed isolates.

Specimen Requirements
1. Pure isolates grown on modified Thayer-Martin, chocolate agar or similar media.
2. Once growth is apparent send cultures to the laboratory.
3. Specimens should be accompanied by a bacteriology/STD form.

Criteria for Rejection
1. Improper specimen
2. Non-viable specimens
3. Mixed isolates

Shipment
1. Cultures should be shipped as infectious substances according to the federal regulations
2. Tubed media is preferred but culture plates are accepted if properly packaged and shipped
3. Ship in a manner to ensure survival of isolate
4. Complete and enclose bacteriology laboratory form
5. To promote good recovery of organisms, cultures should be shipped early in the week to prevent them from lying dormant over the weekend.

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