On July 17, 2024, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published a Desk Reference Graphic describing the procedure for collecting, storing and transporting conjunctival specimens for influenza A(H5) testing of patients with conjunctivitis and suspected infection.

For patients who are only presenting with conjunctivitis, CDC recommends collection of both conjunctival swab and nasopharyngeal swab specimens placed in separate tubes of Viral Transport Medium (VTM) or Universal Transport Medium (UTM). For patients presenting with both conjunctivitis and respiratory symptoms, CDC recommends collection of three clinical specimens: (1) a conjunctival swab, (2) a nasopharyngeal swab and (3) a combined nasal swab and oropharyngeal (throat) swab, each placed into a separate tube of VTM or UTM. For more information and recommendations, please review the graphic in detail.