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VTM Kit (Viral Transport Medium)
Kit Components
Swab
VTM Type
Draw Tube Volume
Packaging
What is a VTM Kit (Viral Transport Medium)?
A VTM Kit (Viral Transport Medium) is a medical collection tool that is used for the safe and effective transportation of specimens that are suspected of containing viral pathogens. Each kit consists of a biohazardous waste bag, a swab, and a tube that is designed to preserve a virus's viability during transit.
The viral transport medium (VTM) swab kits are available as either non-inactivated or unactivated kits. Non-inactivated viral transport medium is ideal for the preservation of a virus that does not need to be inactivated. Inactivated viral transport mediums can be utilized for the safe handling of certain viruses.
Every kit is equipped with collection tubes, sterile swabs, and biohazard collection bags. Collection tubes are produced in three volume options: 5ml, 7ml, and 10ml; and sterile swabs are available as nasopharyngeal swabs or oropharyngeal swabs.
AdvaCare Pharma manufactures VTM Kits (Viral Transport Medium) in ISO and CE-certified facilities located in India, China, and the USA. Every production factory undergoes routine inspections to ensure strict compliance with healthcare standards and the highest levels of quality and safety.
Product Specifications
Viral Transport Medium (VTM) Type
Non-Inactivated medium is based on Hanks' balanced salt solution (HBSS), which provides an isotonic solution-liquid media that protects the proteins and nucleic acids of the virus. Variations of HBSS may include calcium, magnesium, and/or phenol red. Phenol red is a weak acid used as a pH indicator that provides a color change from yellow (pH 6.8 or below) to fuchsia (pH 8.2 or above). It provides a visual assessment of sample contamination.
The VTM non-inactivated medium may contain antibiotics and antifungals (e.g. gentamicin and amphotericin B) to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth.
Inactivated medium features an inactivation process that is achieved through the lysis of virus particles, rendering them non-infectious.
The inactivated VTM contains a surfactant, such as guanidine salt, which aids in virus inactivation, and a protective agent to prevent nucleic acid degradation within the specimen, which helps to ensure the preservation of the viral genetic material for testing.
Why choose us as your VTM Kit (Viral Transport Medium) manufacturer?
AdvaCare Pharma is a reputable and leading manufacturer of VTM Kits (Viral Transport Medium). Our company offers an extensive range of over 4,000 well-known pharmaceuticals, medical devices, supplements, and veterinary products. To ensure the quality of the AccuQuik™ diagnostic detection devices, we adhere to stringent CE and ISO regulations at our production facilities.
AdvaCare Pharma's approach to supply chain management is systematic and data-driven. This helps optimize our resources, which delivers greater value to our clients and end-users. Our well-established worldwide partners include includes hospitals, pharmacies, distributors, NGOs, and government institutions.
Uses
What is a VTM Kit (Viral Transport Medium) used for?
It is used to transport and preserve viral specimens for laboratory testing.
How is a VTM Kit (Viral Transport Medium) used?
After the specimen is collected using the included swab, the swab is inserted into the vial. Then the cap is tightly secured onto the vial, and the vial should be labeled with the pertinent information.
How are VTM Kits (Viral Transport Medium) disposed of after use?
It is advised to follow proper infection control practices, such as wearing PPE and taking precautions for the prevention of any potential exposure to the virus. Local regulations concerning biohazard waste management protocols should be consulted before disposal.
What are the storage specifications for VTM Kits (Viral Transport Medium)?
The packaging instructions should be consulted to determine the best storage conditions for each kit. Generally, it is recommended to store the kits between 2-8°C to maintain the stability of the transport medium and preserve the viability of the specimen.
FAQs
How does VTM help to preserve and transport viral samples?
The VTM contains components that allow for a stable environment in order to maintain the viability and integrity of the viral particles.
Which type of swab should be used?
Either nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs or oropharyngeal (OP) swabs can be used to collect respiratory specimens, but each type of swab targets different areas of the respiratory tract.
NP swabs are inserted through the nostril and the nasal passage to reach the nasopharynx. This type of swab is ideal for collecting specimens of viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2. OP swabs are used to collect samples from the throat, particularly the back of the throat and tonsils. They are ideal for viruses like Streptococcus pyogenes (group A strep). Generally, oropharyngeal swabs are easier to administer and more well tolerated by patients.
Should a non-inactivated or unactivated VTM be used?
The decision between a non-inactivated or inactivated VTM kit is dependent on the particular requirements for the test. Typically, non-inactivated VTM kits are most suitable for assays requiring live virus isolation. Inactivated VTM kits are more suitable when there is a need to transport the samples in a safer manner, as it renders the virus non-infectious.
How long can viral samples be stored in VTM?
The exact duration for the storage of samples varies depending on the specific virus, the type of sample, and the requirements for testing.
Why AdvaCare Pharma?
As an industry leader, we are aware of our responsibility to provide affordable and sustainable solutions to improve healthcare worldwide.