Rocky Mountain Biologicals, LLC (RMBIO) produces Viral Transport Medium (VTM) designed specifically for SARS-CoV-2 (also known as corona virus and Covid-19) testing, according to the United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC) protocol #DSR-052-05. Based on Hank’s balanced salt solution, the medium has a stable pH and osmotic pressure, which provides an appropriate transport and storage environment for the specimen. In addition, the presence of appropriate protein components from US origin Fetal Bovine Serum helps maintains sample stabilization, and Gentamicin (an antibiotic) and Amphotericin (an antifungal) are included to minimize contamination of bacteria and fungi during transportation to maintain virus samples under prescribed conditions for routine nucleic acid extraction, genetic testing and PCR testing, etc. This product has not been reviewed by the FDA.

RMBIO VTM was tested and successfully validated via the Cepheid Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 test, an automated in vitro diagnostic test for qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2, performed on GeneXpert Instrument Systems. The Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 test is only for use under the Food and Drug Administration’s Emergency Use Authorization.

The expiration date is two years from the date of manufacture. RMBIO VTM can be stored ambient (2-25°C). The CDC recommends individual test tubes be filled with 3ml of VTM each. The VTM must be aliquoted under sterile conditions.