After collection, samples should be delivered to the laboratory within how many days?

The correct response indicates that samples for Legionella testing should be delivered to the laboratory within one day. Prompt delivery is crucial because Legionella bacteria can rapidly die off or change form if samples are not processed quickly. The viability of the bacteria is essential for accurate testing results, and delays can lead to misleading conclusions regarding the presence or concentration of Legionella in plumbing systems. Timely delivery helps ensure that the integrity of the sample is maintained, allowing the laboratory to perform precise analyses and provide reliable results.