Every winter, diagnostic laboratories face the same challenge: increased sample numbers, extended turnaround times, and the need for consistent performance under pressure.
Copan’s UTM is engineered for this reality. Its buffered formulation protects viral and bacterial pathogens, maintaining viability and nucleic acid stability for up to 48 –72 hours at refrigerated temperatures. This ensures laboratories can depend on accurate results even when logistics are stretched, a critical advantage during seasonal surges.
Validated for key respiratory pathogens, Copan UTM is trusted worldwide for the collection and transport of samples tested for any viral sample, including: Influenza A & B; Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV); SARS-CoV-2, as well as adenovirus and other respiratory viruses. From high-throughput molecular testing to rapid antigen assays, UTM supports the full diagnostic workflow.
Compatible with many automated and manual molecular platforms, UTM has been validated with numerous assays through clinical studies and manufacturer claims. It is listed as an approved collection device on the following systems:
- Cepheid GeneXpert system (including the Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 and Flu RSV assay)
- Hologic Panther Fusion, Bordetella, Covid, Flu, RSV, Adeno, MPV, RV, Paraflu
- BioMérieux Biofire Film array Respiratory panels
- Roche cobas and Liat. The Roche cobas 5800/6800/8800 systems are explicitly validated for use with a specific UTM round bottom tube format, allowing for direct loading without aliquoting.
- Elitech InGenius Respiratory panel
- Qiagen Qiasymphony Artus and QIASTAT Dx Respiratory panels
- Seegene STARlet, Allplex Respiratory panel.
Other platforms widely used and validated with Copan UTM at various clinical sites include:
- Abbott Alinity The Abbott Real-Time SARS-CoV-2 kit on the Alinity platform
- Altona Diagnostics RealStar SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR Kit
- BD MAX System The BD MAX platform has been shown to be a suitable system for processing samples collected in Copan UTM, using various extraction and detection assays.
- Idylla SARS-CoV-2 Test, and in-house laboratory developed tests (LDTs) using instruments such as the Stratagene Mx3005p and MagNA Pure 96.
While UTM protects and preserves samples, accurate diagnostics start with effective collection. Copan’s flocked swabs are precision engineered to optimise specimen uptake and release.
Unlike traditional fibre swabs, Copan’s flocked technology features perpendicular nylon fibres that act like a soft brush, efficiently collecting cells and biological material. On elution, nearly all the collected sample is released into the transport medium, improving assay sensitivity and consistency. FLOQSwabs and UTM form a proven, validated system trusted by laboratories worldwide.
Copan is committed to sustainability and innovation. UTM tubes are produced under ISO-certified conditions with efficient packaging that reduces waste, supporting NHS Net Zero goals without compromising reliability or sterility. This balance reflects Copan’s global leadership in specimen collection and Sterilab’s shared commitment to sustainable, high-quality diagnostics.
As an authorised Copan distributor, Sterilab supplies the UK’s microbiology community with trusted collection and transport systems. Fully listed on NHS Supply Chain, COPAN UTM and flocked swabs are easy to procure, with support from Sterilab’s microbiology specialists.
The Sterilab team works with NHS and private laboratories to:
- Ensure continuity of supply during peak testing
- Provide product expertise and technical support
- Help laboratories align with best practices in sample collection
Whether scaling up for winter testing or reviewing workflows, Sterilab can help its customers access the right Copan solutions. This respiratory season, equip your laboratory with Copan UTM for sample integrity, stability, and reliability, backed by local supply and expertise.
Explore Copan’s validated solutions for reliable respiratory diagnostics: Copan Collection and Transport Solutions from Sterilab and available through NHS Supply Chain.