Methods, devices and kits for preparing nucleic acid samples for storage and analysis

A method of preparing a biological sample prior to analysis comprising combining the sample with a water-miscible organic solvent to lyse viruses or cells present and to denature RNase and DNase. The solvent may selected from acetonitrile, DMSO, THF, DMF, acetone and formamide. The released and stabilized nucleic acid may be analyzed and quantified by e.g. PCR or RT-PCR without further sample preparation at the point of care or may be transported to a testing laboratory by shipment and analyzed directly. Also claimed is a method of capturing, preparing and storing a sample present in the breath by breathing into a sample container of a device to combine the sample with a water-miscible organic solvent. The device comprises a sample chamber having an inlet and an outlet for breath and the chamber has a surface, sorbent or media onto which breath particles collect.