title: Optimal methods for the isolation of groups A, B, C and G streptococci.
abstract: The recovery of beta-haemolytic streptococci on laboratory media over a 48-hour period was studied from a variety of swabs held in plastic containers only, and from those held in transport media, stored either at room temperature or at 4 degrees C. The best results were obtained from swabs not held in transport medium and of these plain cotton-wool swabs consistently produced optimal results. The percentage recovery over 48 hours was maintained satisfactorily only when the swabs were kept at 4 degrees C.
mesh_terms: D001431:Bacteriological Techniques; D003470:Culture Media; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000379:methods; D013291:Streptococcus / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D013292:Streptococcus agalactiae / Q000302:isolation & purification; D013297:Streptococcus pyogenes / Q000302:isolation & purification; D013696:Temperature; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D003470:Culture Media