Influenza virus cattle testing at the Minnesota VDL

Influenza virus testing of cattle by PCR is available at the Minnesota VDL as part of the State and National responses to the emergence of H5N1 influenza virus in cattle.  The Minnesota VDL accepts milk (preferred) and nasal swab samples for exhibition, inter-state movement, surveillance and sick cattle diagnosis. You can send your samples to our Saint Paul location at 1333 Gortner Ave, Saint Paul MN 55108. The Minnesota VDL is open Monday to Friday from 7:45 am to 4:30 pm. Results will be available one or two business days after receiving the samples (samples received before 1pm will be tested the next business day, while samples received after 1pm will be tested the second business day).  Submitters should use the Minnesota VDL Cattle H5N1 submission form and make sure to indicate the reason for submission and the date of animal movement if applicable. For samples that need a quicker turnaround time for results, please contact the laboratory (612-625-8787, [email protected]) and we will do our best to accommodate your needs. For samples from sick cattle, please contact the laboratory and the Minnesota Board of Animal Health in advance to expedite the testing.