Bluetongue Virus Isolation (Egg Inoculation)

Isolation of bluetongue virus (BTV) utilizing the intravenous (IV) inoculation of 10-12 day old chicken eggs.

One or more of the following: 

• 2-5 mL EDTA whole or heparin whole blood
• 0.5-1 mL semen
• 2-5 g spleen 
• other fresh tissues as deemed appropriate by submitter and/or professional staff

Fresh samples provide the most accurate results. Swabs in gel media are not appropriate for virus isolation.

Blood: EDTA (purple top) tube or heparin (green top) tube. 

Semen: leak-proof tubes or straws. 

Fresh tissue: sealed, leak-proof plastic bag or container.

Label all samples. Ship with cold packs or send frozen at -80. Frozen at -20 is not recommended.

Typical turnaround time is 7 days, but testing may take multiple weeks for confirmation. Price includes confirmation via PCR; typing is available for an additional charge.