What infection prevention measures to be taken while collecting and handling of laboratory specimens from persons suspected or confirmed to have 2019 - nCoV infection?

• All specimens collected for laboratory investigations should be regarded as potentially infectious.

• Ensure that HCWs who collect specimens use appropriate PPE (eye protection, medical mask, long-sleeved gown, gloves).

• The respiratory specimen should be collected under aerosol generating procedure; personnel should wear a fit-tested N95 respirator.

• Ensure that all personnel who transport specimens are trained in safe handling practices and spill decontamination procedures.

• Place specimens for transport in triple packing with the patient's name label on the specimen container (primary container), and a clearly written laboratory request form.

• Ensure that health-care facility laboratories adhere to appropriate biosafety practices and transport requirements

• Deliver all specimens by hand whenever possible and avoid the use of pneumatic-tube system.

• Notify the Central Public Health laboratory as soon as possible that the specimen is being transported (hotline : 91313316)