Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) - Persistently Infected (PI) Pooled - PCR

Collect ear notch (1cm/side) from each animal and place in a dry, sterile tube (e.g. serum tube-no separator gel or anticoagulant). A medium ear notch tool works well or similar tool that cuts a notch that is 1/2" wide at base. Please do not submit large pieces of ear tissue. Individual samples must be identified and submitted separately; samples will be pooled by the laboratory. Disinfect tools with 10% bleach (e.g., 100mL/3oz bleach in 900mL/27oz water) or 1% Virkon, between animals; rinse thoroughly with water. Residual disinfectant or contamination with feces or tattoo ink can yield false negative results. Do not vaccinate while collecting ear notches - this can lead to contamination with extraneous BVDV, causing false positive results. For blood specimens: ensure thorough mixing of blood in EDTA (e.g. invert tube several times immediately following collection) to prevent clotting. Clotted blood is not suitable for testing. Fill tube at least halfway to prevent PCR inhibition caused by excess EDTA.