PCR testing is used in conjunction with BVD antigen ELISA and antibody ELISA to determine the BVD status of herds and sub-groups of animals. Screening bulk milk samples from lactating cows is a convenient and swift way of determining the virus status of large numbers of cows. PCR milk testing can detect virus from one infected animal in a herd of 5000. Serum testing by PCR is performed on pools of 20 animals as the most cost-effective pool size to work with. If virus is detected BVD antigen ELISA or PCR is used to individually test each sera and identify the viraemic animal. Virus screening of all keeper calves is also recommended.
See also Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) Testing Guidelines.
Species:
Bovine
Specimen:
Serum (10 ml) or whole blood
Milk (50 ml)
Container:
Plain or gel tube (serum)
EDTA (whole blood)
Sterile plain pot (milk)
Collection protocol:
Standard venepuncture
Milk – collect from a well stirred vat one hour after milking finishes.
Special handling/shipping requirements:
Standard, keep chilled.