Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA; College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
Michael J. Wallace
Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA; College of Medicine, Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
Jacob S. Yount
College of Medicine, Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
Lorri A. Fowler
Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
Penny S. Jones
Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
Peter J. Mohler
Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA; College of Medicine, Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
Loren E. Wold
Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA; College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA; College of Medicine, Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA; Corresponding author.
Precautionary measures of physical isolation, social distancing, and masks have all aided in controlling the spread of COVID-19. However, detection of the virus is crucial to implement isolation of infected individuals. This paper presents the innovative repurposing of lab materials, workspace, and personnel in response to the COVID-19-induced shutdown and consequential shortage of commercially made virus transport media (VTM). This method for VTM production highlights the ability of standard research labs to fulfill the needs of those affected by the pandemic and potential recurrence of outbreaks. Further, the collaboration of the various entities at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (OSUWMC) allowed for efficient production and distribution of VTM tubes to facilitate mass COVID-19 testing. We propose that implementation of this process by university research labs would enable quicker interventions, potentially better outcomes, and prevention of further spread of disease.
