If the end solution visually matches the PEDv marker supplied by the company, then the virus is present in that sample.
The test would provide a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to laboratory analysis. (The thermal cycler costs around US$5,000. After this initial investment, each individual test will cost between $5 and $20, researchers estimate.)
"Aquila's PEDv test will allow producers to get results within a few hours," Alton told Farms.com today.
In addition to screening individual animals, farmers will be able to use the diagnostic platform to examine “multiple targets for surveillance purposes,” he said.
The researchers continue to conduct testing on the product, Alton said in the Farmscape interview.
Since 2014, 107 Ontario swine operations have tested positive for PEDv, according to Ontario Pork.
Nicole Neily / GettyImages / E+ photo