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In times of unprecedented health crises, the University of Liverpool found itself on the front lines, battling an unexpected Monkeypox outbreak in 2022. The key to managing this infectious disease? Swift and precise testing.

In the summer of 2022, the University of Liverpool faced a fresh hurdle following the COVID-19 pandemic with the sudden outbreak of Monkeypox. Time was of the essence, and every sample collected from individuals’ homes carried immense significance. As part of a large-scale testing program initiated by the University of Liverpool during the pandemic, CitySprint gathered COVID-19 samples from hospitals and transported them to the university’s laboratories, however Monkeypox samples had to be obtained directly from people’s homes.

Time sensitive next day deliveries

CitySprint leaped into action, orchestrating a logistics operation that involved collecting samples from central London and delivering them to Liverpool the next day. To ensure the samples reached the laboratory promptly, CitySprint scheduled a vehicle to leave London at 4:00 AM, guaranteeing delivery by 9:00 AM. The unique nature of Monkeypox samples was handled skilfully by CitySprint’s trained couriers.

Support for individuals providing Monkeypox samples was another facet of the operation. Unlike hospitals, these individuals required more support throughout the collection process. The reliability of CitySprint in both safety and logistics was crucial in ensuring that samples were collected securely and reached the University of Liverpool’s laboratories in optimal condition.

Collaborating to Curb Virus Transmission

Throughout both the COVID-19 pandemic and the Monkeypox outbreak, the University of Liverpool needed a partner they could trust—one with experience in the rapid handling and delivery of critical samples. CitySprint proved to be that reliable partner, demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and support.

The partnership extended across 60 sites throughout the UK and an impressive total of 32,000 samples were collected and delivered across England and Scotland, through their work on COVID-19 samples. CitySprint’s efficient delivery services enabled the University of Liverpool to conduct genetic coding analysis with some samples even making their way to the United States for further study, showcasing the depth of the collaboration’s impact and the breadth of research conducted.

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