They are used to collect cells from an area in the back of the nose and throat known as the nasopharynx, where respiratory viruses live.
The answer is simple: Nasal swabs allow for a sample to be taken where the respiratory virus lives.
Nasal swabs are also used for respiratory infections like the flu, noted Neysa Ernst, nurse manager in the Department of Medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
They are used to collect cells from an area in the back of the nose and throat known as the nasopharynx, where respiratory viruses live.