A moulded plastic tip base is electrostatically coated with high density, perpendicular nylon fibres which produce a flocked pile.  This acts in a brush-like manner allowing efficient removal of a sample from the body surface and uptake of liquid through capillary action.  Since the shape of the swab is determined by the shape of the moulded plastic, the pile is only 1-2mm deep, allowing the sample to remain close to the surface of the swab at all times.  This enables efficient sample release and an improved recovery rate.

“The kit is designed specifically to enhance MRSA sample collection,” said Alison Smith, Marketing Director for Sterilin, who produce the swab.  She added: “Not only does it improve sampling technique and patient comfort but, by improving sample uptake and release, it also ensures accurate and reliable recovery of MRSA.”

The kit can collect and transport up to three samples from a single patient, which maximises the chances of identifying MRSA colonisation. Laboratory workload can be kept to a minimum by concentrating the three swabs into a single aliquot of liquid medium and processed.