Notifiable disease test list

EDTA (Purple top)

Ticks (in ethanol)

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Whole affected abalone:

• Live where possible
• Submit chilled in an insulated container on ice

Up to 7D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Larval smear(s)

• Prepare smears from larvae showing signs of disease (up to 4 larvae per smear)
• Air dried smears should be individually wrapped in paper and sent between two hard cardboard sheets held together with tape or an elastic band
• Do NOT send two smears in contact with each other.

Section of brood comb containing diseased larvae

• Submit an approx. 5 x 10 cm piece of brood comb containing diseased larvae/pupae wrapped in paper towel and packaged in a strong cardboard box.
• The comb must not contain honey and crushed combs may not be suitable for diagnostic analysis
• If unable to send the comb on the day of collection, the comb should be refrigerated until being sent
• Thoroughly clean any tools used to remove the piece of brood comb to avoid spreading disease to other hives

1-2D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Find details on how to collect/prepare samples (PDF, 318.08 KB).

For further information on managing established bee pests and diseases please see the DPIRD Honey bees web page.

HONEY SAMPLES

• Minimum 100 ml (145g) honey
• Honey samples should only be submitted to trace AFB infections. Submit a minimum of 100 ml of bulk honey, preferably from an extraction of multiple hives.
• Do NOT scrape honey from individual frames or send honey contaminated with debris.
• If you own a small number of hives, it is best to examine the hives for disease signs rather than submit honey samples.

7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

For further information on managing established bee pests and diseases please see the DPIRD Honey bees web page.

HONEY SAMPLES

• Minimum 100 ml (145g) honey
• Honey samples should only be submitted to trace AFB infections. Submit a minimum of 100 ml of bulk honey, preferably from an extraction of multiple hives.
• Do NOT scrape honey from individual frames or send honey contaminated with debris.
• If you own a small number of hives, it is best to examine the hives for disease signs rather than submit honey samples.

7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

For further information on managing established bee pests and diseases please see the DPIRD Honey bees web page.

EDTA (Purple top)

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

1D

Monday – Saturday²

1D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

² Prior approval of delivery and testing on Saturday is required. Please contact Customer Service on 1800 675 623 to seek approval.

Monday – Saturday²

LIVE BIRDS ONLY

Clotted blood (Red top)

• At least 0.5ml of serum is required from blood collected into a plain red top tube.
• Sample both affected and unaffected birds.
• Submit chilled.

Contact Lab for suitable samples for porcine submissions.

Up to 7D

Prior approval of delivery and testing on Saturday is required. Please contact Customer Service on 1800 675 623 to seek approval.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batched tested weekly.

EDTA (Purple top)

• 10 ml of blood collected into an EDTA tube
  • Submit chilled

Fresh Spleen (Call Customer Service to discuss)

2D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

• Tick Fever Primefact

EDTA (Purple top)

• 10 ml of blood collected into an EDTA tube
  • Submit chilled

Fresh Spleen (Call Customer Service to discuss)

2D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

• Tick Fever Primefact

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 ml of blood collected in a plain red top tube
• Submit chilled

Up to 7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested on Friday

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 ml of blood collected in a plain red top tube
• Submit chilled

Up to 7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested weekly

EDTA (Purple top)

• 10 ml of blood collected in a purple top tube
  • Submit chilled
  • Ensure blood samples are not in direct contact with ice blocks as this might cause freezing and inactivation of the virus

Fresh tissue

• Spleen and lymph nodes from all post-mortem cases
• Submit chilled

Semen

5-6W

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 ml of blood collected in a red top tube
• Submit chilled

EDTA (Purple top)

• 10 ml of blood collected in a purple top tube
• Submit chilled
• Ensure blood samples are not in direct contact with ice blocks as this might cause freezing and inactivation of the virus

Fresh tissue

• Spleen and lymph nodes from all post-mortem cases
• Submit chilled

Semen

2-3D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Clotted blood/Serum (Red top) 

• LARGE ANIMALS: 10ml of blood (incl ≥2ml of serum) collected into a 10ml plain red top tube
• SMALL ANIMALS: 5ml of blood (incl ≥1ml of serum) collected in a 5ml plain red top tube. 
  Submit chilled

Up to 5D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Related Disease Pages:

Brucellosis (In Cattle)

Brucellosis (In Dogs)

Monday to Friday

Clotted blood (Red top)/Serum (Red top)

• 10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube
• Submit chilled

Up to 7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Thursday and Friday

Clotted blood/Serum (Red top) 

• LARGE ANIMALS: 10ml of blood (incl at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a 10ml plain red top tube
• SMALL ANIMALS: 5ml of blood (incl at least 1 ml of serum) collected in a 5ml plain red top tube.
  Submit chilled

Up to 5D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Related Disease Pages:

Brucellosis (In Cattle)

Brucellosis (In Dogs)

Monday to Friday

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube
• Submit chilled

Up to 5D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Related Disease Pages:

Brucellosis (In Cattle)

Brucellosis (In Dogs)

Wednesday and Thursday

Clotted blood/Serum (Red top) or Lith Hep blood/plasma (Green top)

• LARGE ANIMALS: 10ml of blood (incl ≥ 2 ml of serum) collected into a 10ml tube
• SMALL ANIMALS: 5ml of blood (incl ≥1 ml of serum) collected in a 5ml plain red top tube
• Submit chilled

Up to 7D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Related Disease Pages:

Brucellosis (In Cattle)

Brucellosis (In Dogs)

Vaginal/endocervical secretions

Tissues- Placenta, Foetal tissues

Strains/vaccines- Contact Customer Service

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Clotted blood (Red top)

Fresh tissue

Semen

3-5D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Clotted blood (Red top)

1-2W

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10ml of blood collected into a plain red top tube
• Submit chilled

Milk

• Submitted in Milk Preservative (bronopol)-  You can order Bronopol vials (10 per order minimum) here
• Keep Chilled DO NOT Freeze

Up to 7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested weekly

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10ml of blood collected into a plain red top tube
• Submit chilled

Up to 7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested weekly

EDTA (Purple top)

• 10ml of blood collected into an EDTA (purple top)
• Submit chilled

Preserved milk

2-3D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Diseased brood (mummies)

• Submit an approx. 5 x 10 cm piece of brood comb containing diseased larvae/pupae wrapped in paper towel and packaged in a strong cardboard box.
• The comb must not contain honey, and crushed combs may not be suitable for diagnostic analysis
• If unable to send the comb on the day of collection, the comb should be refrigerated until being sent
• Thoroughly clean any tools used to remove the piece of brood comb to avoid spreading disease to other hives

Find details on how to collect/prepare samples (PDF, 318.08 KB).

For further information on managing established bee pests and diseases please see the DPIRD Honey bees web page.

1-2D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday - Friday

Clotted blood (Red top)

Serum (Red top)

Up to 5D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday – Friday

Dry or PBGS swab (Nasal, tracheal, conjunctival and/or cloacal)

Fresh spleen, fresh lung

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

As required

Dry or PBGS swab (Nasal, tracheal, conjunctival and/or cloacal)

Fresh spleen, fresh lung

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

As required

Dry or PBGS swab (Nasal, tracheal, conjunctival and/or cloacal)

Fresh spleen, fresh lung

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

As required

Fresh Tissue

Swab (PBGS or dry)

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

As required

Dry or PBGS swab

Joint fluid

Fresh Tissues- spleen, lung, brain, liver, abortion tissues

From Real-time PCR

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

As required

Dry or PBGS swab

Joint fluid

Fresh Tissues- spleen, lung, brain, liver, abortion tissues

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

As required

Clotted blood (red top tube)

Lith Hep blood (green top tube)

Up to 5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

EDTA blood (purple top tube)

Ticks (in ethanol)

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected in a plain red top tube
  • Submit chilled

Milk

• Preserved milk
  • Submit chilled

Up to 7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

EDTA (Purple top)

• 10ml collected in a purple top, submitted chilled

Fresh tissue

• Spleen, lung, lymph node, submitted chilled

Semen

2-3D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10ml collected in a red top tube (without anti-coagulant)
• Submitted chilled

Up to 7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch Tested Friday

EDTA (Purple top)

• 10ml collected in a purple top tube submitted chilled

Fresh tissue

• Spleen, lung, lymph node
• Submitted chilled

Semen

4W

Note: Please contact Customer Service to discuss requirements before submitting samples for testing

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand²

Fish (follow link for list of susceptible species)

2-4D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Equine Herpes Abortion Investigation:

Fresh tissue

• Liver, lung, spleen, thymus and placenta
  • Submit chilled

Equine Rhinopneumonitis Respiratory/Neurological Investigation:

Swab in PBGS (preferred)

• Nasal/nasopharyngeal swabs are the preferred sample type for the diagnosis of equine rhinopneumonitis
  • Send in viral transport media (PGBS)

Horse Export Testing

EDTA blood (purple top)-

• 10 ml of EDTA blood collected into a purple top tube.
  • Submit chilled

2-3D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 ml of blood collected into a plain red top tube submitted chilled.

1-2W

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested on Thursday

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 mL of blood collected into a plain evacuated tube (red top)
  • Do not use serum separator tubes.
  • Submit chilled

Up to 7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 ml of blood (including at least 2ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube submitted chilled

Up to 7D

Note: Confirmatory testing may affect turnaround time.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

³ With the exception of Public Holidays- Please contact Customer Service to confirm submission and reporting dates around public holidays.

Wednesday & Friday³

³ Note: With the exception of Public Holidays- Please contact Customer Service to confirm submission and reporting dates around public holidays.

Semen

• 15-20 ml of sperm rich fraction of ejaculate
  • Submit chilled

Fresh tissue

• Lung, liver, spleen, thymus, lymph node, placenta and foetal fluid from aborted foetus
  • Submit chilled

2-3W

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

This test is for export purposes only. Please contact Customer Service before submitting samples.

According to demand

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 ml of blood collected in a plain red top tube
  • Submit chilled

3-7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested Tuesday & Friday

EDTA (Purple top)

• 10 ml of EDTA blood collected in a purple top tube
  • Submit chilled

Fresh tissue

• Lung, liver, spleen, thymus, lymph node, placenta and foetal fluid from aborted foetus
  • Submit chilled

Swab (PBGS)

• Nasal / nasopharyngeal and conjunctival swabs collected into PBGS
  • Submit chilled

Semen

2-3D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 8-10ml collected in a red top tube.
• Submit chilled
• Be sure to avoid contamination of the container and stopper and remove all blood and faecal matter prior to packing and dispatch. Use a separate sterile needle for each animal to avoid mechanically transmitting infectious agents from one animal to another.

EDTA (Purple top)

• 8-10ml EDTA blood collected in a purple top tube.
• Submit chilled
• Be sure to avoid contamination of the container and stopper and remove all blood and faecal matter prior to packing and dispatch. Use a separate sterile needle for each animal to avoid mechanically transmitting infectious agents from one animal to another.

Vesicular fluid

• Withdraw up to 5ml of vesicular fluid with a narrow-gauge needle.
• Place in a plain sterile specimen tube.
• Ensure that the vial is proportionate in size to the volume of the sample to allow recovery of the sample, but total vial volume should not exceed 5mL.

Vesicular Swab

• Swab vesicular lesions and place in phosphate buffered gelatin saline (PBGS) for transport.
• If no PBGS is available, place swabs in 2-3 mL of sterile saline in a screw topped vial.

Swabs (oral & lesion) in PBGS

• Vigorously swab the inside of the cheeks with sterile cotton swabs, as far into the mouth as practical and place in PBGS.
• If it is impractical to collect swabs from the mouth, collect nasal swabs by vigorously rubbing the swab on the lining well inside the nose.

Tissue

• Up to 2cm2 or 1g of epithelium is ideal.
• If enough lesion is not available, collect as much as possible.
• Samples from fresh lesions may rub off or alternatively, gently grasp the epithelium with forceps before cutting a section away.
• Epithelium can be transported in dry sterile screw topped vials.
• Do not mistake a large fibrin clot for epithelium - test the texture before submitting it.
• Fibrin crumbles more easily than epithelium and fibrin will be less likely to contain virus

Refer to the Foot and Mouth Disease FMD Field Investigation

1-2D

Please refer to the FMD disease page for further information

Hoof swab in footrot transport media (FTM)

• Hoof samples for D.nodosus culture
  • Media for footrot sampling (FTM) can be supplied by the laboratory (only use FTM that is within expiry and has been stored at 4°C)
  • Samples must be received by the laboratory within 7 days of collection
  • Submit chilled
  • For assistance in collecting samples, please refer to the Collecting and packaging footrot samples video

2-4W

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday

Hoof swab in footrot transport media (FTM)

• Hoof samples for D.nodosus culture
  • Media for footrot sampling (FTM) can be supplied by the laboratory (only use FTM that is within expiry and has been stored at 4°C)
  • Samples must be received by the laboratory within 7 days of collection
  • Submit chilled
  • For assistance in collecting samples, please refer to the Collecting and packaging footrot samples video

2-4W

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday

From culture

• Pure D. nodosus culture obtained from Footrot Culture

Up to 28D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday and Thursday

Clotted blood (Red top)

• LIVE HORSES
  • 10 ml of blood collected into a plain evacuated tube (red top)
    • Submit chilled
    • Do not use serum separator tubes
• DEAD HORSES
  • 10 ml of blood collected into a plain evacuated tube.
    • The jugular vein usually provides the simplest means for collecting this blood however if blood cannot be collected into an evacuated tube because of clotting, collect the blood into 2 x 5 ml screw-topped tubes.
    • Wipe blood off the thread on the tubes before replacing the lid.
    • Submit chilled
• CATS & DOGS (Testing referred to ACDP, not completed at DPIRD Lab)
  • Collect samples as for horses except that 5 ml blood tubes may be used. Tubes should be filled.
  • Blood collected into a plain evacuated tube
    • Submit chilled.
    • Do not use serum separator tubes.

7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Note: Cat & Dog submissions are referred to ACDP for testing.

Batch tested weekly

Swab (PBGS)

• Tracheal swabs from larynx and proximal trachea should be submitted in viral transport media (PBGS) and with clear labels on bird and tissue sampled.
  • Use sterile swabs
  • Submit chilled
  • Paediatric swabs can be used for small birds
  • As the diagnosis is a flock diagnosis, up to five swabs can be pooled per test sample. Pooling is done at the lab to ensure individual testing can occur if necessary.
• Dead birds securely packed (i.e double bagged and in a rigid container that is clearly labelled as suspect infectious laryngotracheitis) can be submitted and swabbed at the laboratory. The carcass will be put on hold for further testing pending results.
  • Clinically affected birds should not be submitted live due to risk of contagion.
  • A full detailed necropsy, if required, will be charged to submitter.

Fresh tissue

• Fresh upper trachea with larynx
• Up to five larynx-tracheas can be submitted in one container if from same flock/batch and have similar clinical signs and gross findings

2-3D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Accordingly to demand

Swab (PBGS)- Nasal swabs

• Swab mucosal surface of each nostril, collected separately into viral transport media (PBGS)
• Submitted chilled.
• Do not use commercially prepared swabs with plastic sleeves that contain transport medium. Tubes containing PBGS can be ordered via the online media request form. If PBGS is not available, swabs should be placed in 2 mL sterile saline.

1-2D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

LIVE PIGS

Clotted Blood (Red top tube)

• 10mL of clotted blood (Red Top) from the dam of affected litters.
• 10mL of clotted blood (red top) from up to 10 animals in the same unit that the affected litters are in
• Submitted chilled

Live Horses

Clotted Blood (Red top tube)

• 10mL of clotted blood (red top) per animal.
• Submitted chilled
• A convalescent sample should be taken 2-4 weeks apart.
• A single positive sample will only confirm pervious exposure.
• A convalescent sample may provide an indication of the time of infection.

Post Mortem from deceased (12hrs) and euthanised animals

Due to the similarity in clinical signs to Hendra virus, equids showing these signs should not have a post mortem or CSF collection performed until Hendra virus has been excluded as the cause of disease.

CFS

• CSF and any other fluid available.
• Submit chilled

7-10D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Swabs (PBGS)

Fresh tissue and CSF

• Fresh brain, spleen, thoracic fluid, liver, CSF and any other fluid available.
• Whole aborted, stillborn or mummified foetuses are also able to be submitted.
  • These foetuses should be placed in a sealed plastic bag and stored at 4oC until submission.

Post Mortem from deceased (12hrs) and euthanised animals

Due to the similarity in clinical signs to Hendra virus, equids showing these signs should not have a post mortem or CSF collection performed until Hendra virus has been excluded as the cause of disease.

2-3D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

14-16W

Sample processing begins on Monday

14-16W

Sample processing begins on Monday for faeces or Tuesday for tissues

Faeces Pooled testing:

• Cattle only - Collect half (minimum) to two-thirds (maximum) of a 70 ml yellow top sterile specimen container and pooling will be completed in the laboratory (5 animals per pool)
• Sheep - collect one pellet from each animal (up to 50 per pool)
• Goats - collect one pellet from each animal (25 animals per pool)- Culture testing ONLY

General requirements:

• Store samples chilled (4°C) prior to transit and submit chilled (4°C).
• Samples should be sent to the laboratory within 48 hours of collection.

14-16W

• D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
• JD Culture requires several consecutive processes; therefore, new cultures are not set up over the Christmas/ New Year period. Samples received during this time will be held at -80°C for processing in the New Year and will have an extended turnaround time.

Sample processing begins on Monday

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10ml clotted blood (minimum of 2ml of serum) collected in a red top tube
• Submit chilled

See notes for further information**

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

** Please Note the Johnes CFT is not routinely offered. Please contact Customer Service to discuss your testing requirements.

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10ml clotted blood (minimum of 2ml of serum) collected in a red top tube
• Submit chilled

Lith hep (Green top)

• 10ml of Lith-Hep blood collected in a green top tube
• Submit chilled

Milk

Up to 5D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday to Friday

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10ml clotted blood (minimum of 2ml of serum) collected in a red top tube
• Submit chilled

Lith-hep (Green top)

• 10ml Lith-Hep blood collected in a green top tube
• Submit chilled

Up to 5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday to Friday

EDTA (Purple top)

• 10 ml of blood collected into an EDTA tube (purple top)
  • Submit chilled

2-3D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 ml of blood from farrowing sows with affected litters collected into a plain red top tube.
  • Submit chilled.

1-3W

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Fresh Tissue:

• Fresh lung
• Mediastinal lymph nodes
  • Submitted chilled.
  • Do not freeze.

Swabs

• Dry or PBGS swab (Nasal swab)

• Pleural fluid
• Bronchoalveolar washings

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday- Friday

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 ml of blood (including at least 0.5 ml serum) collected into a plain red top tube.
  • Submit chilled.

Up to 7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Swab (PBGS)

• Separate cloacal and tracheal swabs (not pharyngeal) should be submitted in viral transport media (PBGS) and with clear labels to identify bird and tissue sampled.
  • Use sterile swabs.
  • Paediatric swabs can be used for small birds.
  • Submit chilled.
• Dead birds securely packed (i.e. double bagged and in a rigid container that is clearly labelled as suspect Newcastle disease) can be submitted and swabbed at the laboratory. The carcass will be put on hold for further testing pending results.
  • Live birds should not be submitted.
  • If not considered a genuine case of exotic disease exclusion, the submitter may be charged for a more detailed necropsy.

Fresh tissue

• Spleen, lung, kidney, heart, liver and bone marrow
  • Submit chilled.
  • Fresh tissues should be in separate containers and labelled to identify bird and tissue sampled.
  • Portions should be about 1 cm cubes.

1-3D

Turnaround time depends on urgency.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

25 adult bees

• Samples for diagnosis should be collected by gathering 25 adult bees from the hive entrance or from the top bars of the frames.
• Young nurse bees on brood combs are unsuitable for examination.
• Place bees in alcohol in a leak proof plastic container and forward to the laboratory by the fastest available means.

1-2D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

• Nosema disease primefact

For further information on managing established bee pests and diseases please see the DPIRD Honey bees web page.

Monday - Friday

Swab (PBGS)

• Separate cloacal and tracheal swabs should be submitted in viral transport media (PBGS).
  • Use sterile swabs.
  • Paediatric swabs can be used for small birds.
  • Clearly label swabs to identify bird and tissue sampled.
  • Submit chilled.

Fresh tissue

2-3D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Faeces, environmental swabs, and eggs

2D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Reproductive swabs

• Swabs should be taken from each of the following sites and submitted without refrigeration in Amies charcoal transport medium for bacteriology:
  • Stallions - Three swabs per animal from
    • The prepuce and base of penis (smegma),
    • terminal urethra, and
    • urethral fossa and urethral sinus.
  • Non-pregnant mares - Three swabs per animal from
    • cervix,
    • clitoral sinus, and
    • clitoral fossa.
  • Pregnant mares - Two swabs per animal from
    • clitoral sinus, and
    • clitoral fossa.
• Note:
  • Exposure of swabs to high temperatures should be avoided.
  • Submitters should provide the time and date of collection. Swabs should arrive at the laboratory and be plated out within 48 hours of collection.

Strains/vaccines

2D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

EDTA (Purple top)

• 10 ml of blood collected into an EDTA purple top tube
• Submit chilled

Fresh spleen (Call Customer Service to discuss)

2D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

• Tick Fever Primefact

Monday- Friday

Preputial wash or scrapings from bulls or Vaginal Mucus from cows in TFETM or PBS*

• Preputial wash or scrapings from bulls or vaginal samples from cows are to be submitted at room temperature in Trichomonas Foetus Enrichment Transport Medium (TFETM).
• Collect samples as per the Sample Collection Guideline for Bulls and Cows
• TFETM and phosphate buffered saline (PBS) are available from the laboratory upon request*.
• IMPORTANT - Do not submit chilled as organisms are sensitive to the cold

Collecting, Packaging and Shipping

• Label all samples with the date of collection and official animal identification, making sure the keylist is also included.
• Media must be removed from the fridge and left for 30 minutes at room temperature or until it reaches ambient temperature (20-35°C) prior to use.
• Collected samples in TFETM should be stored and forwarded to the laboratory at room temperature (20-35°C) while in transit.
• Please submit in an esky with NO frozen / cooled ice brick or gel packs, complying with IATA biological substances transport requirements. Samples should be packaged so they are protected from extreme heat and cold.
• Schedule shipments to avoid weekend and holiday delivery of samples to the laboratory. The laboratory should receive the samples within 24 (export animals for breeding) to 48 hours after collection.

If it is suspected that samples have been exposed to temperatures outside of the optimal range of 20^oc to 35^oc, then it is likely that the target pathogen is no longer viable, and therefore the integrity of the test results are compromised. The laboratory reserves the right not to test these samples (link to T&Cs)

Foetal Stomach Contents in TFETM or neat

• Foetal stomach contents, collected in a sterile container, must be delivered within 6 hours of collection, otherwise it must be transported in Tritrichomonas foetus Enrichment Medium (TFEM) or neat. TFEM is available from the laboratory upon request*.
• IMPORTANT - Do not submit chilled as organisms are sensitive to the cold.
  • Please submit in an esky with NO frozen or cooled ice bricks or gel packs.
  • Samples should be packaged so they are protected from extreme heat and cold and maintained at room temperature (18-37^oC) while in transit.
  • Packing should comply with IATA biological substances transport requirements (see Additional Information).
  • Clients should schedule shipments to avoid weekend and holiday delivery of samples to the laboratory. The laboratory should receive the samples within 48 hours of collection (delivery of samples within 24 hours of collection is preferred). Include the date of collection on the submission form.
  • If it is suspected that samples have been exposed to temperatures outside of 5-37^oC, target pathogen viability could have been affected. The laboratory reserves the right not to test these samples (refer to terms and conditions).

7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

*For sample collection, refer to the Campylobacter and Tritrichomonas sample collection guide pdf

Monday – Friday

Tissue

Preputial wash or scrapings from bulls in PBS**

Vaginal samples from cows in PBS**

** Collect samples as per the Sample Collection Guide for Cows and Bulls

5D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

Monday - Friday

Tissue

Preputial wash or scrapings from bulls in PBS**

Vaginal samples from cows in PBS**

** Collect samples as per the Sample Collection Guide for Cows and Bulls

5D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

Monday - Friday

Mite

5D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10ml clotted blood collected in a red top tube
• Submit chilled

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

• 5ml sterile vial or 10ml red top tube.
• Submitted chilled

7-10D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

NOTE: Collection of paired clotted blood samples in the acute and convalescent phases of the illness (approximately 3-4 weeks apart) is recommended to confirm recent infection in mammalian non-equine species.

According to demand

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10ml clotted blood collected in a red top tube
• Submit chilled

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) 

• 5ml sterile vial or 10ml red top tube.
• Submitted chilled.

7-10D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Note:

• The WNV IgM ELISA is only suitable for equine samples only and is the preferred test for blood samples collected from horses within 2 weeks of the onset of clinical signs.
• The first sample should be collected as soon as possible after clinical signs have been observed.

According to demand

Fresh Tissue: Brain stem

• Submit brain cut in half longitudinally to ensure that all representative areas are available for virus detection.
• Submitted chilled

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

• 5ml sterile vial or 10ml red top tube.
• Submitted chilled.

2-3D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

Faeces (70ml yellow top container)-

1. Individual testing: Collect half (minimum) to two-thirds (maximum)

2. Pooled testing:

• Cattle only - collect as per individual and pooling will be completed in the laboratory (5 animals per pool)
• Sheep - collect one pellet from each animal (up to 50 per pool)

General requirements

• Store samples chilled (4°C) prior to transit and submit chilled (4°C).
• Testing will not proceed if samples are not received chilled.
• Samples should be received at the laboratory within 48 hours of collection.
• A pooling charge will apply for HTJ testing.

6W**

^** Express testing available. Additional fees apply.  Contact Customer Services.

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Note: If this testing is required for EXPORT PURPOSES, please provide the export protocol/dispensation documentation and provide the number of samples arriving, the date of arrival, the testing required (Individual or pooled) and when you require the results back by.

As required

Faeces (70ml yellow top container)-

1. Individual testing: Collect half (minimum) to two-thirds (maximum)

2. Pooled testing:

• Cattle only - collect as per individual and pooling will be completed in the laboratory (5 animals per pool)
• Sheep - collect one pellet from each animal (up to 50 per pool)

General requirements

• Store samples chilled (4°C) prior to transit and submit chilled (4°C).
• Testing will not proceed if samples are not received chilled.
• Samples should be received at the laboratory within 48 hours of collection.
• A pooling charge will apply for HTJ testing.

6W**

^** Express testing available. Additional fees apply.  Contact Customer Services.

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Note: If this testing is required for EXPORT PURPOSES, please provide the export protocol/dispensation documentation and provide the number of samples arriving, the date of arrival, the testing required (Individual or pooled) and when you require the results back by.

As required

N/A

N/A

This is the pooling fee associated with Johne's High Throughput PCR pooled testing (charge per pool)

N/A

Clotted blood (red top)

EDTA (Purple top)

Fresh tissue

Swab (PBGS)

1-2D

Please refer to the ASF disease page for further information

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

Refer to notes

Refer to notes

Please refer to the LSD disease page for all disease, sampling and testing information

Clotted blood (Red top)

• 10 mL of blood collected into a plain evacuated tube (red top)
  • Do not use serum separator tubes.
  • Submit chilled

Up to 7D²

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

² Confirmation testing of positives may affect turnaround time.

According to demand

Whole deceased animal (chilled)

• Submit whole deceased bat, small domestic or wild animal. If ABLV is suspected in large animals contact the laboratory for further information on sample submission.
  • Do not euthanise by shooting the animal in the head
  • Ensure carcass is securely packed (i.e. triple-bagged in a rigid container)
  • Submit chilled (not frozen)
• If only parts of the body are available, they may still be suitable for testing (head or neural tissue)
• Necropsy of suspect bats should only be undertaken under laboratory conditions by vaccinated pathologists where brain and salivary gland can be collected for testing.

1-3D*

* Note: Same day to 3 days depending on urgency

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand**

**Note: Prior approval of delivery and testing on Saturday is required. Please contact Customer Service on 1800 675 623 to seek approval.

Serum (Red top)

• 2mL (minimum) of serum collected into a red top tube
• Submit chilled

Plasma (Green or Purple top)

• 2mL (minimum) of plasma collected into a green/purple top tube
• Submit chilled

See notes for further information**

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

** Please Note the Johnes AGID is not routinely offered. Please contact Customer Service to discuss your testing requirements.

Clotted blood (Red top)

EDTA (Purple top)

Fresh tissue

1-3D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

Fresh tissues- submit chilled

Swabs- submit chilled

• Pus from abscesses in sterile container or dry swab. (Transport media can affect PCR)

PCR from cultured isolate

5D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Faeces, fresh tissue, swab (PBGS)

2-3D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

LIVE HORSES

(Samples in order of priority for collection are EDTA blood, clotted blood, nasal swab in PBGS, other swabs in PBGS)

• Clotted Blood (red top)
  • 10 ml of blood collected into a plain evacuated tube
    • Submit chilled
    • Do not use serum separator tubes
• EDTA (purple top)
  • 10 ml of blood collected into an EDTA treated evacuated tube
    • Submit chilled
• Swab (in PGBS- Refer to notes)
  • Nasal swabs - Mucosal surface of each nostril, collected separately into viral transport media (PBGS)
    • Submitted chilled
  • Swabs from other mucosal surfaces - Oral cavity, rectum (rectal mucosa not faeces), conjunctiva, and vagina.
    • Collect separately into PBGS and submit chilled.

DEAD HORSES

• Clotted Blood (red top)
  • 10 ml of blood collected into a plain evacuated tube.
    • The jugular vein usually provides the simplest means for collecting this blood however if blood cannot be collected into an evacuated tube because of clotting, collect the blood into 2 x 5 ml screw-topped tubes.
    • Wipe blood off the thread on the tubes before replacing the lid.
    • Submit chilled
• Swab (in PGBS- Refer to notes)
  • Nasal swabs - Mucosal surface of each nostril, collected separately into viral transport media (PBGS)
    • Submitted chilled
  • Swabs from other mucosal surfaces - Oral cavity, rectum (rectal mucosa not faeces), conjunctiva, and vagina.
    • Collect separately into PBGS and submit chilled.

COMPANION ANIMALS- CATS & DOGS

• Clotted Blood (red top)
  • Collect samples as for horses except that 5 ml blood tubes may be used. Tubes should be filled.
    • Blood collected into a plain evacuated tube
    • Submit chilled.
    • Do not use serum separator tubes.
• EDTA (purple top)
  • Collect samples as for horses except that 5 ml blood tubes may be used. Tubes should be filled.
    • Blood collected into an EDTA treated evacuated tube.
    • Submit chilled.
• Swab (in PGBS- Refer to notes)
  • Oral swabs should be collected from the posterior pharynx and tonsillar region.
    • Sedation may be required to collect adequate diagnostic samples.

1-2D

Note: Turnaround time is dependent on urgency.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Note: DO NOT use commercially prepared swabs with plastic sleeves that contain transport medium. Tubes containing PBGS can be supplied by the laboratory. If PBGS is not available, swabs should be placed in 2 ml sterile saline.

According to demand

Note: Prior approval of delivery and testing on Saturday is required. Please contact Customer Service on 1800 675 623 to seek approval.

Clotted blood (Red top)

EDTA (Purple top)

Fresh tissues

1-2D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Information for Vets: African Horse Sickness

Emergency Animal Disease Bulletin No. 122 African Horse Sickness

Scabs

Skin

Swabs (PBGS)

EDTA (Purple top)

Clotted Blood (Red top)

1-2D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

More information can be found on our Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) Emergency Animal Disease Page

Clotted blood (Red top)

EDTA (Purple top)

Fresh tissue

Swab (PBGS)

1-2D

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Bulk tank milk

• Submitted in Milk Preservative (bronopol)-  You can order Bronopol vials (10 per order minimum) here
• Keep Chilled DO NOT Freeze

Up to 7D

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested weekly