Step-by-step instructions for collecting and mailing stool samples for the Traveller's Diarrhoea Study

Before Diarrhoea Episode

Receive Stool Sample Collection Pack: Each study participant will receive a stool sample collection pack before their travel (Fig. 1). This pack includes:

  • Two stool collection cards (FTA cards)

  • A multi-barrier pouch

  • A reply-paid pre-addressed mailing envelope

  • A personal tissue pack

  • Instructions for stool sample collection

Fig 1: Two stool collection cards (FTA cards), A multi-barrier pouch, and a reply-paid pre-addressed mailing envelope

At the Onset of Diarrhoea

Prepare for Sample Collection: If you experience an episode of diarrhoea during your trip, you should prepare to collect a stool sample using the materials provided in the sample collection pack.

 

Collect Stool Sample:

  • Use a Tissue from the Personal Tissue Pack: Take a tissue and use it to obtain a small amount of stool.

  • Smear Stool Sample on the FTA Cards: Following a bowel movement, open one stool collection card and smear the soiled toilet paper onto the sample collection area of the card (Fig. 2). Repeat this step with the second stool collection card using a new tissue for a fresh sample. A thin smear in the center of the collection area is good.

Fig. 2: Red area shows the sample collection area of the FTA card.

Seal the Stool Samples:

  • Place Completed Cards in Multi-Barrier Pouch: After smearing the stool samples onto the two FTA cards, close the cards.

  • Write the date of collection on each card (if you have a pen or pencil).

  • Place both cards into the multi-barrier pouch.

  • Seal the Multi-Barrier Pouch: Ensure the multi-barrier pouch is sealed tightly to prevent contamination and leakage.

Mail the Samples:

  • Place the Sealed Multi-Barrier Pouch in the Mailing Envelope: Take the sealed multi-barrier pouch and place it inside the reply-paid pre-addressed mailing envelope provided in the sample collection pack.

  • Seal the Mailing Envelope: Ensure that the mailing envelope is sealed securely.

  • Send the Envelope: Mail the envelope at the nearest post office or postal box. Since it is a reply-paid envelope, no postage is required.

 

Additional Instructions

  • Hygiene: Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water after collecting the stool samples.

  • Storage: If unable to mail the samples immediately, store the sealed envelope in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight until you can mail it.

  • Contacting the Study Team: If you have any questions or need additional supplies, contact the study team using the contact information provided in your app.

 

These instructions are designed to ensure that your stool samples are collected and mailed back safely for analysis. Following these instructions will contribute to the success of this study on traveller’s diarrhea among Australian tourists.