Virus Isolation (Cell Culture)

One or more of the following: 

• 2-5 g fresh tissue
• 0.5-1 mL semen
• 5-10 mL EDTA or heparin whole blood
• swabs from affected area(s)
• other samples 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 collected in heparin (green top tube) is preferred. Blood collected in EDTA (purple top) may clot during testing, therefore is not preferred.

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

Semen: leak proof tubes or straws. 

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

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

Appropriateness of this test will be determined by TVMDL based on species and virus. For species not listed contact the laboratory. Typical turnaround time is 14 days, but testing may take longer for confirmation.