TVMDL maintains two laboratories dedicated to poultry diagnostics, located in Center, Texas and Gonzales, Texas. With the help of TVMDL, veterinarians can learn the best method to safely take a blood sample from poultry; the sample TVMDL uses to test for diseases like Avian Influenza, Salmonella or Mycoplasma. Veterinarians service the Texas animal health industry by certifying poultry are healthy.
| Test | Test Code | Preferred Specimen | Sample Collection | Labs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avian Influenza Virus – Serum (ELISA) | 1360 | 0.5 mL serum or 1 mL of blood | Microvial, SST, RTT | Center, Gonzales |
| Avian Influenza Virus – Serum (AGID) | 1471 | 0.5 mL serum or 1 mL of blood | Microvial, SST, RTT | Center, Gonzales, College Station |
| Avian Influenza Virus – Yolk (ELISA) | 1361 | Whole egg or yolk in well-sealed tube | Microvial or RTT | Center, Gonzales |
| Avian Influenza Virus – Yolk (AGID) | 1472 | Whole egg or yolk in well-sealed tube | Microvial or RTT | Center, Gonzales, College Station |
Blood Collection
Supplies needed include a 3 mL or 5 mL syringe, 20-gauge 1.5-inch needle, red top tube, and a zip-to-lock style bag.
Using the syringe and needle, prepare for collection by pulling the plunger back to break the seal and prevent sudden suction that can cause the vein to collapse. Next, identify the brachial vein in the wing; this vein will provide sufficient blood.
Once the area is identified, remember to pull back the plunger gently to avoid collapsing the vein. If the blood flow stops, rotate the needle to move the bevel from the vein wall. If a hematoma forms and impedes blood flow, attempt collection from the other side.
Remove the needle from the syringe and transfer the sample to a red top tube without vacuum assistance. Collect at least 1 mL of blood, more if possible. Leave at least one-fourth of the tube empty and recap the tube. Allow clotting with the tube in a slanted or horizontal position. Incubate at room temperature until the blood separates into a cell clot and clear-to-yellow translucent serum. If the clot and serum will be in transit more than 24 hours, separate the serum from the clot. Clearly label the zip-to-lock style bag for shipping or delivery. Ship with a cold pack.