Ebola diagnostics

2.1 Sample collection procedures

2.1.2 Post mortem sample collection

Handle each sample as if it were highly infectious!

The Ebola virus can be detected in a post-mortem sample, i.e. with a skin specimen or with saliva collected with an ESWAB type of kit.

2.1.2.1 Post mortem cutaneous specimen collection

The tissue collected is fixed in formaldehyde and sent to a specialized laboratory with a molecular pathology unit able to conduct the immunohistochemical tests required (e.g. the Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA). Once the specimen has been fixed in formaldehyde and the outside of the transport box has been decontaminated, the sample is no longer contagious.

  • The skin collection should be done with all the biohazard safety precautions explained previously (PPE etc.) Take particular care to not get contaminated with sharps or blades.

  • A piece of skin is cut from the neck of the corpse.

  • The specimen is immersed in the formaldehyde-containing vial.