Submitting Specimens for Vector-Borne Bacterial Tests

Specimen submission guidelines

CDC's Bacterial Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory serves as a national reference diagnostic laboratory for bacterial diseases caused by Borrelia species, Bartonella henselae, Bartonella quintana, Francisella species, and Yersinia pestis. Testing is provided free of charge to approved agencies.

1. Samples should be sent through your local or state public health laboratory or with their approval. Final reports of test results are returned to the submitting public health laboratory.
2. There are currently two methods for submitters to submit specimens for testing. The CDC Test Order and Reporting (CSTOR) Web Portal (preferred) and the CDC 50.34 Specimen Submission Form. A separate submission is required for each test requested. Find guidance for sample submission and information about the CSTOR Web Portal and the CDC Form 50.34 at Submitting Specimens to CDC.
3. Required information for testing is listed under each specific test in the CDC test directory. The links below will direct you to the CDC test directory.
4. For each test, the following information can be found by using the links below: acceptable sample type; minimum volume requirement; collection, storage and preservation of specimen; specimen transport; turnaround time; and points of contact.
5. CDC does not accept routine shipments on weekends or holidays. Please make sure packages arrive Monday–Friday.

Test codes for samples