Specimen Requirements

1 mL or more of liquid or semi-formed stool in a plastic or glass container. An acceptable

specimen takes the shape of the container. Store at 2-8° C for up to 5 days in a

clean container, a sterile container is not required. Specimens collected at home may be

placed in a container that has been cleaned in a household dishwasher.

2. Unacceptable specimens include formed stools, rectal swabs, or specimens submitted too

soon after prior testing.

3. Guidelines for repeat testing are:

a. Repeat testing can be performed within 2 days after of an initially-negative result

b. Repeat testing within 2 weeks of a previous-positive result is not acceptable due to

lingering DNA in the absence of infection. Resolution of diarrhea is the best proof of

cure.

c. Accept no more than two specimens/patient without prior consultation with an

individual who can explain the limited yield provided by additional specimens.

d. Do not accept specimens from inpatients after the third hospital day, without prior

consultation.