Evaluation of Silica Gel Packages for Transport of Neisseria meningitidis

Eight Neisseria meningitidis reference strains, representing six different serogroups, were plated on 57 blood agar plates each. The growth was harvested and stored in silica gel packages at different temperatures for up to 90 days. When held at 4 degrees C, all strains were recovered after 90 days of storage. Strains held at room temperature or alternately at 4 degrees C and room temperature survived for at least 10 and 17 days, respectively.