Evaluation of FTA cards as a tool to submit samples for PRRSv diagnostics

摘要

Timely and accurate diagnostics are crucial for proper intervention against PRRSv (porcine reproductive and respiratory virus). The appropriate sample collection, handling, shipping and laboratory processing is critical for maximizing test sensitivityand specificity. FTA cards consist of a cellulose-based matrix paper containing chemicals that lyse all the cells in the sample while preserving the nucleic acids. Therefore, FTA cards can be used for safe transfer of diagnostic samples and shipped in a single non-biohazard labeled envelope.