If testing is delayed, how should a swab for suspected Neisseria meningitidis be stored?

• A. Refrigerate at 4°C in saline
• B. 24°C from calcium alginate swab in Amies charcoal medium
• C. Room temp on plain cotton swab
• D. Freeze at -20°C in culture medium

Answer: (B)

When a test result will be delayed, the priority is to keep the Neisseria meningitidis organism viably preserved during transport. Using a calcium alginate swab placed in Amies charcoal transport medium provides a protective, buffered environment that supports the organism’s survival while limiting overgrowth and degradation. Storing at room temperature, around 24°C, minimizes stress on the bacteria compared with freezing or refrigeration, which can damage viability of this fastidious organism. The Amies charcoal medium helps neutralize inhibitory substances and maintains stable conditions for the sample until culture can be performed.