Biospecimen Collection During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health
• Laboratory Safety

Background:

• Millions of biospecimens are collected during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Lessons from SARS highlight the need for proper biospecimen handling to prevent laboratory-associated infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide additional considerations for biospecimen handling during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To complement existing interim guidance from CDC and WHO.

Main Methods:

• Review of prior SARS recommendations and recent COVID-19 reports.
• Incorporation of updated interim biosafety guidelines for SARS-CoV-2.

Main Results:

• SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA detected in various biospecimens, but viability requires further study.
• All biospecimens collected since October 2019 may be considered potentially infectious.
• Biospecimens collected from known, suspected, presymptomatic, and asymptomatic individuals.

Conclusions:

• Institutions must conduct risk assessments and adhere to biosafety guidance for all biospecimens.
• The scientific community must ensure safe handling and maintenance of COVID-19 biospecimens.
• Establishment of worldwide guidelines for biospecimen handling, storage, and use is imperative.