CDC LOCS Lab Update: Interim Laboratory Biosafety Guidelines for Handling and Processing Specimens Associated with Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

On March 13, 2020, CDC updated the Interim Laboratory Biosafety Guidelines for Handling and Processing Specimens Associated with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) page on the Information for Laboratories website. The revisions include recommendations for:

• Following Standard Precautions when handling all clinical specimens
• Using automated instruments and analyzers
• Point-of-care testing (POCT)
• Using EPA-registered disinfectants with label claims for SARS-CoV-2
• Following routine practices and procedures for management of laboratory waste

The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about laboratory biosafety and COVID-19 are in the process of being updated to align with the new Interim Laboratory Biosafety Guidelines for Handling and Processing Specimens Associated with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Another LOCS message will be sent once the update to the FAQs page has been completed.

Learn more by reading the full CDC Laboratory Outreach Communication System (LOCS) Lab Update here. Check out the CDC LOCS website and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Information for Laboratories website for the latest information.