The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that influenza activity began relatively early compared to recent seasons during the 2012-2013 season. As the 2012-2013 influenza season outbreak unfolds, questions about proper sample collection for respiratory specimens arise.
COPAN Diagnostics, Inc. understands the importance of a sample collected properly and has worked with infection control and point-of-care providers to develop training videos and specific collection guides demonstrating proper technique for collection of respiratory specimens. Among the educational resources produced by COPAN Diagnostics, Inc., a set of videos was created for CDC and the Joint Commission to be used in a web-based course on influenza diagnosis and treatment in ambulatory settings for healthcare providers. The educational videos show proper technique for collecting respiratory specimens for influenza using swabs, aspirates and washes. Demonstrations of nasal and nasopharyngeal swab sample collection use FLOQSwabs by COPAN and COPAN's Universal Transport Media (UTM). Additional videos demonstrate proper technique for nasal aspirates and nasal washes.
These videos are a free resource available on the COPAN Diagnostics website at: http://www.copanusa.com/index.php/education/videos/.Â
Second Strain of Bird Flu Found in US Dairy Cows: What It Means for Infection Prevention and Control
February 7th 2025A new H5N1 strain was found in Nevada dairy cows, challenging earlier transmission theories. This raises concerns about animal vulnerability, human health risks, and food safety. Experts emphasize the need for improved surveillance, biosecurity, and cross-sector collaboration to contain the virus spread.
Fungal Infections: The Silent Epidemic Threatening Global Health
February 6th 2025Fungal infections are a rising global threat, with antifungal resistance complicating treatment. Neil J. Clancy, MD, emphasizes the urgent need for research, better diagnostics, and stronger infection prevention strategies.