How to take a sample

The contents of the kit are: consent form, labelled sampling swabs, UK prepaid return envelope, information leaflet and the receipt.

Please check the consent form for accuracy and if you are happy with this, please have all participating persons sign where indicated. We cannot process your samples unless we have the consent of all of those taking part in the test. Please see our FAQ’s for information regarding consent for children under 16 years of age. 

Please wash your hands before taking the sample and ideally, do not smoke, eat or drink (except water) in the hour before sampling. We also recommend rinsing your mouth with water before collecting the sample.

Match the labelled swab to the person being tested and one at a time, break the seal on the lid, take the swab out of the container (do not touch the cotton tip), insert into the mouth, press onto the cheek and rub the swab in a circular motion 8 to 10 times. Place the swab back into the container and press the lid into place.

For babies and young children, it is sometimes easier to rub the cotton tip between the bottom lip and gum.

Please put the swabs and the signed consent form into the prepaid envelope and post! Please retain the receipt form, which contains your case number, just in case you need to contact us.