Abstract: A combination of a special swab applicator, a containment vial therefor and a cap for the vial is provided. An elongate vial containing a culture preserving media has one open end and a closed end and threads about its circumference at the open end. The cap has a threaded rim for attachment to the vial and a central section closing off the area inside the rim. The central section has an axially extending bore portion that snuggly fits an end of the swab applicator. The swab applicator has a long shaft with a first section having a length corresponding approximately to the length of the vial and a second section joined to the first by a frangible joint. After use of the applicator it is inserted into the vial and the second section is broken off. The cap is then threaded onto the vial to seal it and capture the first section.