Rickettsiales spp. (rtPCR)

0.5 - 2 mL EDTA whole blood or tick(s)

Blood in heparin (green top) tube cannot be used for this test. Ensure thorough mixing of blood in EDTA (e.g. invert tube several times immediately following collection) to prevent clotting. Clotted blood is not suitable for testing. Fresh samples provide the most accurate results.Learn more about sending samples for molecular diagnostics testing in our online Education Library.

Blood: EDTA (purple top) tube. 

Ticks: glass or plastic tube. Ticks may be stored in ethanol; isopropyl is not acceptable.

Label all samples. Ship overnight on cold packs in an insulated container.

TVMDL can only test parasites found on animals.  Testing for parasites from humans is performed by the Texas Department of State Health Services.