Instructions for Shipment of Suspected, Probable Or Confirmed Ebola Specimen to WHO

Instructions for shipment of suspected, probable or confirmed Ebola specimen to WHO collaborating centers

Upon the completion of triple packaging, the shipper must ensure that all the requirements of packing instruction 620 (PI 620) are completed and follow the given steps

1.  Complete the booking form and forward by email to World Courier, Switzerland and copy the WHO Country office as well as WHO Regional focal and WHO HQ focal point. E-mail addresses have been given in the booking form.

2.  Following the notification to World Courier, Switzerland, the shipper will be contacted by the World Courier local agent to arrange the suitable time for collection of the shipment. The shipper must double-check the markings and labels on the shipment container to ensure adherence to PI 620 or packing instruction for Category A infectious substance. All the paperwork such as item list and sample collection form must be done.

3.  The following documents will be required before the agent can accept the package for shipment:

v  Airway bill (AWB), provided by the World Courier agent

v  IATA’s Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods (provided by the laboratory) For the ‘Proper Shipping Name’ use:

·  Infectious substances, affecting humans (Ebola virus) for shipments of positive specimens

·  Infectious substance, affecting humans (suspected category A infectious substance) for shipments of suspected cases of Ebola

v  An export permit from the custom department if required

v  An import permit for the recipient country (will be checked by WC before shipping)

v  Packing list/proforma invoice indicating the recipient’s address, number of packages, details of contents including weight and value. For international transport a minimal value is required even if the items are being provided free of charge.

4.  Notify WHO Country Office and copy WHO Regional Office and WHO HQ when the shipment has been dispatched.