Export Testing Guidelines

PREPARATION FOR TESTING

  • Have You Checked USDA IREGS for testing requirements for your export?
  • Does USDA contain the testing requirements for your export?
  • If there are no IREGS, do you have an import permit stating the test requirements for your export?

PREPARATION FOR SAMPLE SUBMISSION

  • Contact lab - Many tests require advance laboratory preparation, so we encourage you to contact the lab 1-2 weeks prior to sending samples to ensure adequate prep time.
  • Allow adequate time for testing - Not all tests are conducted every day. Check the VDL Fee Schedule for listing of normal test schedules and turn-around times.
  • Submission form - Fill out clearly and legibly. Always use the most current submission form found on our website.
  • Provide complete and accurate information - Accuracy is extremely important for export cases. Changing information after submission can delay the finalization of results.
  • Submit an electronic spreadsheet - The best way to ensure accuracy and eliminate transcription errors is to submit via ISU VDL web portal using a spreadsheet containing tube numbers, animal identification, age, and sex.
  • One farm site per submission - Multiple sites should be on separate submissions.
  • Submit good quality samples

Serology

  • Preferred sample - centrifuged sample.
    • Pour serum into 5 ml snap-cap tube. Be sure to double-snap each tube.
    • If sending clot tubes, serum separator tubes are preferred (the CF assay is very sensitive to samples that contain RBCs).
    • Some countries (China, for example) require some tests to be completed at NVSL.

Brachyspira culture

  • Preferred sample - rectal swab.
    • Insert swab past anal sphincter, rotate one full turn, withdraw, and place in 5ml snap-cap tube with transport media (Stuart’s or Charcoal).

IAV PCR

  • Preferred sample - nasal swab.
    • Culturette swabs with viral transport media in 5ml snap-caps are preferred. Alternatively, synthetic swabs such as dacron or nylon (not cotton) in 0.5 to 1 ml of viral transport media can be submitted (saline is also acceptable but not preferred). Swabs should be shipped overnight on cold packs.

PED/PDCoV PCR

  • Preferred sample - rectal swab.
    • Insert swab past anal sphincter, rotate one full turn, withdraw, and place in 5ml snap-cap with viral transport media. Alternatively, synthetic swabs such as dacron or nylon (not cotton) in 0.5 to 1 ml of viral transport media can be submitted (saline is also acceptable, but not preferred). Swabs should be shipped overnight on cold packs.

Specific export testing requirements

  • USDA-APHIS Animal and Animal Product Export Information:
  • Submitting veterinarian is responsible for determining the tests required. Since export requirements frequently change, obtain the current export requirements from the Veterinary Service office in your area before each shipment. Do not rely solely on information provided by brokers and exporters. Export certificates are official documents and they should be typewritten, accurate, and complete.

Iowa Veterinarian-in-Charge USDA, APHIS VS

210 Walnut Street, Room 891 Des Moines, Iowa 50309

Phone: (515) 284-4140 Fax: (515) 284-4156