When sending blood cultures to the laboratory, we recommend you send them on the morning courier (where possible) to ensure optimal handling and timely processing.
If the culture bottles cannot be sent on the morning courier, they should be placed in a warm place (not exceeding 37°C) or at room temperature until they can be transported – DO NOT refrigerate or ship on ice. Refrigerating inoculated blood culture bottles can negatively impact the recovery of microorganisms, potentially killing some or slowing their growth.
For more information on the collection and submission of blood cultures, please refer to the “How To” guide on our website here.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact your local laboratory.