Abstract: A swab device for collecting a biological sample from an individual is disclosed, the swab device comprising a head having a swab material for trapping a biological sample thereon and a body comprising means for moving the head relative to the body. Also disclosed is method of obtaining a biological sample from an individual which method comprises contacting at least a portion of the head of a swab device with a surface of the individual, the head of the swab device being moved relative to the body of the swab device whilst the head of the device is in contact with the surface.

Abstract: A method of selecting for analysis a sample of a biological material anisotropically distributed on a substrate, said method comprising the steps of directing a beam of radiation onto said substrate, said radiation being selected to interact with said anisotropically distributed biological material to an extent corresponding to said anisotropy; measuring said interaction at plurality of locations on said substrate; and selecting said sample by reference to said measurements. An inspection apparatus for selecting for analysis a sample of a biological material anisotropically distributed on a substrate is also disclosed.

Abstract: A sampling assembly (30) for removing a portion of a sample (40) impregnated in designated areas of a medium such as filter card (37) supported in a frame (39); said assembly comprising a punch and die mechanism having a punch (32) movable into a hole (34) provided in the die (33); locating means (31) for positioning the punch and die mechanism relative to designated areas of the filter card; and a raised section (35) provided on said die and arranged to directly support the filter card medium adjacent to the portion of the sample (40) during removal of said portion from the filter card (37).