Swab (Nasal)
A nasal swab test detects bacteria present in the nasal passages. It is commonly used to investigate recurrent infections or screen for bacterial carriage.
Turnaround time
2 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Swab (Nasal)
What is the Nasal Swab Test?
A nasal swab test involves collecting a sample from inside the nostrils using a sterile swab. The sample is analysed in a laboratory to identify bacteria commonly carried in the nose, some of which can cause infections.
This test is frequently used to detect organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA, and other bacteria linked to respiratory or skin infections. It helps identify asymptomatic carriage as well as active infection.
Nasal swab testing is widely used in both clinical assessment and screening contexts, particularly when recurrent infections are present.
Why do I need a Nasal Swab test?
The nose can act as a reservoir for bacteria that repeatedly cause infections elsewhere in the body. Identifying nasal carriage can help explain recurrent skin, sinus, or soft tissue infections.
You may need this test if you experience:
- Recurrent skin or soft tissue infections
- Frequent sinus or upper respiratory infections
- Non-healing wounds or repeated abscesses
- Close contact with individuals carrying resistant bacteria
- Pre-procedure or hospital screening requirements
- Suspected MRSA carriage
Testing provides valuable information about bacterial colonisation and infection risk.
Benefits of the test
- Identifies bacterial carriage
Detects bacteria that may repeatedly cause infections. - Supports infection control
Useful for screening before procedures or hospital admission. - Explains recurrent infections
Helps identify hidden sources of repeated illness. - Simple and quick sampling
The swab process is brief and well tolerated. - Useful for MRSA detection
Commonly used to screen for resistant bacteria. - Non-invasive testing
No blood draw required. - Supports targeted follow-up
Results guide further assessment or monitoring. - Applicable to adults and children
Suitable across age groups.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
- Choose your nearest UK clinic
- Attend your appointment
- A clinician takes a nasal swab
- Sample is sent to the laboratory
- Results are issued once analysis is complete
Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
- Book a mobile clinician
- Nasal swab taken at your home or hotel
- No clinic visit required
- Sample securely transported to the laboratory
Your results explained
No bacteria detected (normal)
- No clinically significant organisms identified
- UK standard: No growth / not detected
- Suggests no relevant bacterial carriage
Low-level growth / colonisation
- Small amounts of bacteria present
- UK standard: Colonisation detected
- May not indicate active infection
Positive (significant growth)
- Pathogenic bacteria identified
- UK standard: Organism reported by name (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus detected)
- Indicates carriage or infection depending on clinical context
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.