Specimen Collection Information

Acceptable specimens: Review with NHPHL/CDC.

CDC Test Directory:  https://www.cdc.gov/laboratory/specimen-submission/list.html 

Special paper requisition (CDC Form 50.34) must be completed by ordering provider and submitted to the laboratory with the specimen.

CDC accepts specimens from suspected botulism cases (no rule-out testing). CDC does not provide microbial identification or toxin testing on specimens not associated with clinical botulism cases.

Foodborne botulism: pre-antitoxin serum (without anti-coagulant), stool, enema (with sterile non-bacteriostatic water), food. Although not ideal, gastric contents may also be submitted.

Wound botulism: pre-antitoxin serum (without anti-coagulant), debrided tissue, swab from wounds, stool (only if foodborne is also suspected).

Infant botulism: stool, enema (with sterile non-bacteriostatic water), rectal swabs. Potential sources (honey or opened powdered formula) may also be submitted.

Unopened commercial products are accepted only with permission from FDA or USDA.