Page 232 - Vessel Sanitation Program 2018 Operations Manual

VSP 2018 Operations Manual

• Sterile pipettes.
• 20 serum separator tubes (containing no anticoagulant [red tops]).
• 20 nunc tubes for serum separation.
• Shipping containers (for diagnostic specimens).
• Shipping container labels and markings (as required by current
shipping regulations for diagnostic specimens).

As noted in Annex 13.4.3.4, vessels with no medical staff aboard may
choose to stock only the *starred items unless a qualified staff member
aboard is capable of performing venipuncture for collection of serum
specimens.

13.4.5.2 Specimen Collection

13.4.5.2.1 Request Procedures
It may be advisable to collect clinical specimens of stool, vomitus,
or serum from passengers and crew members with REPORTABLE
CASES of AGE. Timely notification of the vessel as to what
samples and information will be required is essential. Collection of
specimens for analysis for viruses, bacteria, or parasites may be
recommended depending on the likely etiology of illness.

It is recommended that specimens be requested from patients
during clinical evaluation in the infirmary or after infirmary visits
by direct contact with or a letter from medical staff. Each
individual asked to provide specimens should be given disposable
gloves, two specimen cups, a disposable spoon, and plastic wrap.

Following are
• Suggested language for a passenger letter requesting stool
specimens.
• Instructions to passengers and crew for collection of stool.

Request to Passengers for Stool Specimens
The [U.S. Public Health Service/Name of Cruise Line/Medical
Department] is requesting stool specimens from some people who
became ill with AGE on this cruise. Please give one cup to a friend
who has recently become ill and use the other cup for yourself. Put
your next bowel movement into the cup and return the cup to the
vessel’s medical center as soon possible so it can be refrigerated.

Patient Instructions
1. Urinate into the toilet (if you feel the need).
2. Wash and dry your hands.
3. Lift the toilet seat.

Annex 13.4: Acute Gastroenteritis Outbreak Investigation; 179