Bluetongue Virus (BTV) pre movement testing
AFBI Guidance on Bluetongue Virus (BTV) pre movement testing and accompanying advice for sample submission.
Introduction
Due to the specific requirements for this testing, and for biosecurity reasons, it is important that the following advice is adhered to when sending samples to AFBI.
Submission form for BTV pre movement testing
The submission form below should be used for any BTV pre-movement testing submissions. Ensure the submission form is fully filled with all details entered including full animal tag identifications with prefixes. Missing details will result in delay to testing.
BTV pre-movement testing submission form.
Address for BTV pre-movement samples
Address as follows:
F.A.O. IDU Serology BV TESTING
Veterinary Sciences Division (VSD)
AFBI Stormont
12 Stoney Road
Stormont
Belfast BT4 3SD
The outer packaging should be labelled as shown below:
Samples can be hand delivered to VSD and should be left in box labelled BTV Submissions in the shed beside PM.
Sampling requirements
Please submit a Clot (red top) for Serology/ELISA testing.
Please submit an EDTA (purple top) for PCR testing.
Both blood tubes should be fully filled to their intended capacity
Ensure all blood tubes are in date. Expired tubes submitted will not be tested.
Turnaround times
AFBI aim to return results within the time frames laid out in DAERA’s pre-movement testing guidance.
Bluetongue Pre-Movement Testing – Guidance for Veterinary Practitioners on Sample Packaging and Labelling
To ensure ensure legislative requirements are met as well as efficient delivery, sample integrity during transport and the safety of our personnel, please follow the sample packaging and labelling guidelines outlined below.
Safety requirements
Sharps (e.g. needles) and gloves should not be included in the sample packaging or sent via the post.
Packaging requirements
Samples must be transported in a three-layer system to include:
Primary receptacle
Use leak-proof blood sampling tubes.
Ensure each sample tube is labelled correctly to allow for accurate identification.
If submitting multiple samples, wrap these individually using a cushioning material to prevent contact or breakages during transport.
Secondary packaging
Must be leak-proof and contain sufficient absorbent material (e.g. cotton wool or paper towel) to absorb the entire contents in the case of a leak or breakage.
A sealed biohazard bag is ideal.
Outer packaging
Use a rigid outer package (e.g. cardboard box) to prevent damage during transit.
Example of how diagnostic samples should be packed in a three-layer packaging system. Source: IATA
Further details on sample packaging and labelling for information.
Contact details
For any further queries contact:
Tel: 02890 525720
Email: SerologyLab@afbini.gov.uk or vm.dl@afbini.gov.uk
Ensure to include BTV Pre-Movement testing Info Request in Subject Field of the email.