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This powerful new assay is designed to provide producers and veterinarians with a simple “average” BVDV antibody level assessment for a population of lactating cows utilizing a bulk tank milk (BTM) sample.
Seeking a tool to estimate within-herd exposure to BVDV at a reduced cost and with simpler sampling procedures than traditional serum based serological screening, the Livestock Improvement Corporation in New Zealand, validated the IDEXX HerdChek BVDV Antibody assay for use on bulk tank milk (BTM) samples. The assay compares the BTM sample’s antibody level against a known positive, resulting in a “sample to positive control” or S/P ratio.
Utilizing a single BTM sample, the assay has been shown capable of providing a reasonable estimate of milking herd sero-prevalence and is highly sensitive for the detection of active or very recent exposure of the milking herd to Persistently Infected (PI) animals. With a single sample, veterinarians can tailor their control strategies to most cost effectively further investigate and manage BVDV.
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