New TB Tests for Deer, Elk Approved in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 02/14/2013
State animal health officials announced on Wednesday that two new serologic tests for detecting tuberculosis in deer and elk are now approved for use in Wisconsin. The Cervid TB Stat-Pak and Dual Path Platform tests now meet state and federal regulatory requirements as an alternative method of testing the
captive cervids living on more than 513 deer farms across the state.
"The new tests are an improvement over traditional skin testing because they are easier to perform and more precise," says State Agriculture Secretary Ben Brancel. "Our intent is to make it easier for the state's deer farmers to maintain a healthy industry here in Wisconsin."
Traditional skin testing requires animals to be restrained between two to four times to inject and read a primary and secondary test, if required. The new tests require only one restraint for collection of a blood sample, which can be used for both primary and secondary testing purposes. In addition, the new tests
have demonstrated greater accuracy and specificity that meets or exceeds current skin testing methods now used in Wisconsin.
USDA and DATCP require that sample collection for both tests be performed by approved cervid TB accredited veterinarians. These veterinarians must complete USDA training on sample collection and test submission before being authorized to submit samples for testing.
