Please note that specimens transported by road to the laboratory must be packaged according to OIE regulations for protection of their integrity. The principle of a three-layer system should be followed.

A three-layer system comprises of the following elements:

• First layer: a leak-proof receptacle (avoid glass containers);
• Second layer: a leak-proof container e.g. plastic container or water-tight plastic bag;
• Third layer: a rigid outer packaging of adequate strength for its capacity, mass and intended use e.g. plastic or cardboard box.

For liquids, absorbent material, e.g. paper towels, in sufficient quantities to absorb the entire contents should be placed between the first and second layers.

For additional information on sample packaging, please click here to visit the OIE website.

Specimens submitted to the laboratory across boundaries or from a Foot-and-Mouth area must be accompanied by the applicable transport permits (red-cross permit).