BVD (Bovine Viral Diarrhoea)

Early identification through tag testing and elimination of PI cattle is the most critical measure for achieving a more enhanced eradication programme

Testing Methods and Samples Required

At AgriDiagnosticss we provide our clients with state-of-the-art comprehensive BVD detection methods. Our expert analysts implement Real-Time PCR for BVD ear notch samples and we provide p80 antibody detection in tissue samples as these are the most sensitive methods for BVD detection. Calves born in Ireland must be tagged with tissue sampling tags. Once our laboratory receives the tags, they are punched to release the tissue sample; all details are then recorded in our database. Samples are tested and analysed and results are reported the following day to the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) who will alert the herd owner of their results (negative, positive, inconclusive or no sample) via text message.

Submission of samples for BVD virus testing: samples should be submitted to the laboratory within 7 days of collection.

Tissue tag testing remains compulsory in 2019 under the following legislation:

The BVD Eradication programme is supported by the following legislation Statutory Instrument No. 30/2017 (Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Regulations 2017) was published in Iris Oifigiúil on 3rd February 2017. This replaces the Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Regulations (2014) (SI 118/2014).

BVD (Bovine Viral Diarrhoea) is a viral disease among PI cattle. It can be transmitted easily by infected animals, or indirectly via contaminated faeces and equipment. This disease can have devastating effects on the herd within a short time frame and is estimated to cost Irish farmers €102M per year.

Early identification through BVD testing is considered the most effective approach to eliminating any significant losses and aids the national economic cost that BVD imposes.

No biological test is 100% accurate. If an inaccurate result is suspected, the animal should be isolated and re-tested. All designated laboratories are independently accredited for BVD testing. The test methods used (ELISA or RT-PCR) will, in the majority of cases, accurately detect the presence or absence of virus in tissue and blood samples when submitted and tested correctly. However, results relate only to the sample as received by the laboratory and, whilst laboratories warrant that their tests will meet their applicable declared specifications, the laboratories make no other warranty, expressed or implied and accept no responsibility or liability in respect of false results which are within the limits of the declared specifications of the tests offered. No representation or warranty is given by AHI, ICBF, the Technical Working Group, the Implementation Group or any member, employee or other person connected with any of the preceding bodies as to the accuracy of any BVD test methods or test results. Neither AHI, ICBF, the Technical Working Group, the Implementation Group nor any member, employee or other person connected with any of the foregoing bodies shall have any liability or responsibility in respect of any laboratory or the accuracy of any test methods, test results or reports produced by any laboratory.