Protocol for Blood Sampling
Protocol for blood sampling for bovine TB using the Enferplex test.
Please be aware that the following represents best practice. Serological samples are relatively tolerant of sub-optimum conditions but if maximum sensitivity and specificity are to be achieved then they need to be handled appropriately. Please note that maximum sensitivity will be achieved if testing occurs 10-30 days post the administration of tuberculin.
- Collect samples at the beginning of the working week, to allow the samples to get to SureFarm Ltd by Tuesday or early Wednesday morning at the latest.
- Cleanly take a blood sample, minimum of 3 ml, into a serum (red top) glass vacutainer tube.
- Clot the blood at room temperature (20 +/- 4 degrees Celcius) for 2-3 hours to allow good clot formation and initial clot retraction. Beware taking samples over prolonged period of time in very cold temperatures as this can result in a problem with clot retraction.
- Store Cool to 4-8 degrees Celcius and keep at that temperature until they arrive at the destination lab. Transport should be in an approved transport container with samples appropriately labelled / supported so they don’t shake about too much. Avoid having the samples delayed in the transport system over a weekend.
Timing of sampling
As discussed in the performance section, the sensitivity of this test is significantly enhanced if the sampling occurs between 5 and 30 days post the injection of Tuberculin on day one of the skin test. Therefore we would recommend seeking to enhance sensitivity of detection of M bovis infected animals that you aim to sample within this window where possible.