GeneSeek® now offers rapid PEDV test
January 20, 2014
CONTACT: Dr. Susanne Hinkley, Neogen Corporation, 402.435.0665 |
LINCOLN, Neb., Jan. 20, 2014 — Neogen Corporation announced today the immediate availability of a new test to rapidly and accurately detect porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV). Early detection of the virus is critical to stop its spread from farm to farm, and between facilities within a pig farm or pig production site.
Neogen’s new PEDV test is offered through the veterinary diagnostics laboratory of its GeneSeek subsidiary, which is based in Lincoln, Neb. Each test is $25, and depending on testing volumes, GeneSeek anticipates most test results should be available on the next business day after sample receipt. Sample types accepted for testing include environmental sample pads or swabs, fecal swabs and oral fluids.
“Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus can devastate a population of nursing pigs, with mortality approaching 100%, and can significantly impact the performance of adult pigs,” said GeneSeek’s Dr. Stewart Bauck. “Especially now, it is important to determine the causative agent of a diarrheal disease, as the clinical signs of porcine epidemic diarrhea can mimic other similar but less pathogenic diseases, such as transmissible gastroenteritis.
“Livestock biosecurity experts we have worked with believe the most efficient testing protocol for PEDV is to perform environmental testing in farm facilities and on vehicles that move between farms, and within the different operations of a single farm,” Dr. Bauck continued. “One very easy environmental sample collection method is the use of moist, unscented disposable mop pads, such as those sold under the Swiffer brand. All we need is that sample mop pad in a sealed plastic bag, and we can quickly determine if the sample contains PEDV.”
The new test utilizes real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methodology, and is one of many rapid animal health tests available through GeneSeek. Other tests for swine include those for porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), swine influenza virus (SIV), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, and porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2).
For more information, contact GeneSeek at 402.435.0665.
Neogen Corporation (Nasdaq: NEOG) develops and markets products dedicated to food and animal safety. The company’s Food Safety Division markets dehydrated culture media, and diagnostic test kits to detect foodborne bacteria, natural toxins, food allergens, drug residues, plant diseases and sanitation concerns. Neogen’s Animal Safety Division is a leader in the development of animal genomics, along with the manufacturing and distribution of a variety of animal healthcare products, including diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, veterinary instruments, wound care and disinfectants.