In Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) surveillance under the Polio Eradication Programme, stool samples must be transported to the laboratory under specific conditions. Which of the following correctly describes this requirement?
- A Samples transported at room temperature within 72 hours
- B Samples transported in a reverse cold chain at 2-8°C within 72 hours of collection ✓
- C Samples frozen at -20°C and transported within one week
- D Samples preserved in formalin and transported at any temperature
Correct answer: B. Samples transported in a reverse cold chain at 2-8°C within 72 hours of collection
Explanation
AFP surveillance requires two stool samples collected 24-48 hours apart within 14 days of paralysis onset. These must be transported in a reverse cold chain (2-8°C) to the WHO-accredited laboratory within 72 hours for poliovirus isolation. The term 'reverse cold chain' refers to transporting specimens FROM the field TO the lab under cold conditions (opposite of vaccine transport direction). This ensures viable virus for isolation.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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