Saliva Specimen Requirements

Saliva collection and shipping instructions
Kits
Saliva kits are available by contacting our Clinical Coordination team directly at 617-209-2090. Three types of saliva kits are available:
- Saliva Spit Kit – Safety Data Sheet
- Saliva Swab Kit – Safety Data Sheet
- Assisted Saliva Swab Kit – Safety Data Sheet
Volume
2ml of saliva is requested. Collect saliva until the saliva – not bubbles – reaches the fill line marked on the collection tube.
Labeling
Tubes must be labeled with the individual’s name and date of birth, which must match the name and date of birth on the test order. Unlabeled or mislabeled samples will not be accepted.
Video Instructions
Video demonstration of saliva collection is available in our Patient Resources section for the three types of saliva kits:
Storage
Saliva samples should be shipped immediately after being collected. If immediate shipping is not possible, saliva samples can be kept at room temperature for no more than 7 days before shipment.
Shipping
Every saliva kit includes a pre-paid return label to Variantyx. Please review the label in your kit to determine what service (USPS, UPS, FedEx) to use to return the kit. For any questions about returning a sample, please contact our Clinical Coordination team directly at 617-209-2090.