What is a nasopharyngeal swab?

Jan 03, 2023

One type of nasal swab is a nasopharyngeal swab, which is used to look for bacteria or viruses that cause respiratory infections.
A swab is used by your healthcare provider to collect a small sample of cells from your nasopharynx, which is the top part of your nose and throat. The swab's long, thin portion is made of flexible plastic or wire. The swab has a tip on the end that absorbs a sample of fluid from your nasopharynx.