DiagnosticTesting - Virology

Virus isolation is available for a range of pathogens, including salmonid alphavirus (SAV).

Immunofluorescent staining of infectious pancreatic necrosis virus growing in cell culture
  • SAV isolation
    Isolation of SAV (SPDV, SDV) has traditionally been carried out from tissue samples.
    • This is labour intensive and limits the number of samples that can be processed.
    • Tissues are typically collected when clinical signs are evident: this can be several weeks after initial exposure, reducing the likelihood of virus still being present.
  • It is now recognised that following infection, Atlantic salmon and trout have a period of viraemia (up to two weeks) and that serum samples provide an excellent analyte for virus isolation
    Jewhurst et al. 2004; McLoughlin et al. 2006; Graham et al. 2007.
    When combined with immunostaining to reveal the presence of virus, positive results can be obtained in as little as three days.
    • This test is typically conducted in conjunction with serology testing for virus neutralizing antibodies.
  • Virus isolation.
    • Serum should be separated and sent on ice. Avoid freezing if possible.
    • Tissues should be sent on ice. Avoid freezing if possible. Ideally, samples should be in transport medium, as outlined in Packaging of Samples. Packaging of samples.
For more information contact:
Dr Michael Welsh
Agri-Food &  Biosciences Institute (AFBI)
Virology Branch
Veterinary Sciences Division
Stoney Road
Stormont
Belfast BT4 3SD
U.K.
Email Dr Michael Welsh
Tel +44 (0) 28905 25672
Fax +44 (0) 2890525773
Work Mobile +44 (0)7900212807

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