Sending Samples for Testing

This following information is based off of submitting samples to the Johnes Testing Center

Johne's Testing Center
School of Veterinary Medicine
2015 Linden Drive, RM# 4230
Madison, WI 53706-1102
(608) 263-69202

 

Does a vet have to submit the samples?

No, test samples can be submitted by the individual owner or your veterinarian.

The attached form is useful for sample submission but not required.

http://www.johnes.org/testserv/forms/submission2012.PDF

 

What methods are used by the Johne’s testing center?

-  Blood and milk  (ELISA)

-  Fecal Culture- pooled or from a single animal

-  Cultures – environmental and from tissue

-  Direct PCR (fecal)

 

How much blood do I need to collect?

-1-2 ml any sized tube.

 

What size sample is needed for the Fecal PCR test?

You only need about a tablespoon size sample to complete the Fecal PCR. Fecal samples can be sent in zip lock baggies or in sealed containers.  Make sure they are sealed well in order to prevent any contamination.

  
Do I need to ship the samples with an ice pack?

 

It would be helpful to have an icepack for blood samples. If blood samples have to sit overnight before being shipped out, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator. 

If the weather is warmer when you are shipping, consider using an ice pack for fecal samples as well.  Keeping the fecal samples cool will prevent fungal growth.  Fungi can destroy the integrity of the sample.

 

Helpful tips for submitting samples:

 

-         Clear handwriting!  If you are using the form or if you are labeling samples, clear handwriting is a must!

-         Itemized list: It is helpful for the lab to have an itemized list of all your submissions as well as clearly labeled samples. This allows lab personnel to take an inventory and make sure all submissions have been received and are intact.