Canine Influenza

Testing for Canine Influenza will be performed by PCR ($25). If positive, that result will be reported out. If negative, the submitting veterinarian will be contacted to see if follow up testing by Virus Isolation is desired, if that is not already clearly indicated on the submission form ($25). Each case will be charged a $10 accession fee.

The fee structure is as follows:

  • $10.00   Accession Fee
  • $25.00   Influenza A PCR
  • $25.00   Virus Isolation (done only if PCR is negative)

Guidelines on sending samples to the Indiana ADDL for suspect Canine Influenza testing:

Swabs:

  • Appropriate swabs:
    • Use sterile, polyester (Dacron), rayon, or nylon swab with plastic or wire shafts
    • Cotton or calcium alginate swabs, or swabs with wooden handles will NOT be tested. Please contact the manufacturer of swabs to determine if they contain calcium alginate.

Sampling:

  • Take nasal or oropharyngeal swab
  • DO NOT use inappropriate swabs or swabs without media (dry swabs) - they will not be tested and would be reported out as “no test.”
  • Place swab(s) in 1 ml of sterile saline, in sealable tube/vial. DO NOT PLACE SWAB IN CULTURETTE MEDIA, OR OTHER BACTERIAL MEDIA.
  • BHI broth, other viral transport media, can also be used.

Shipping:

  • Ship on ice (chilled, not frozen) using a same day or next day delivery service to arrive Monday through Friday
    • Indiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory
      406 South University Street
      West Lafayette, IN 47907-2065
  • When shipping samples, please indicate on the ADDL CF.750 Companion Animal Submission Form if you suspect flu
  • Call to let us know samples are coming, if possible
  • Walk- ins are welcome (Hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm)
  • After-hour emergency calls regarding testing and sample submission can be made to our lab number (765) 494-7440, which will transfer you to the service call center

Submissions:

If you have additional questions, please contact the lab at 765-494-7440 or addl@purdue.edu

Additional information can be found at the following websites:

AVMA information on canine influenza: https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/FAQs/Pages/Control-of-Canine-Influenza-in-Dogs.aspx
BOAH website with a link to Canine Influenza FAQs: http://www.in.gov/boah/2384.htm