Idexx announces launch of equine tests

Idexx Reference Laboratories has announced the launch of its equine respiratory RealPCR Panel, which offers realtime PCR technology to help equine veterinarians diagnose respiratory diseases in horses in a speedy fashion.

The company noted respiratory diseases in horses can have a number of bacterial and viral causes, with it vital to identify the pathogen causing the illness in order to properly treat the condition and manage the spread of the disease.

Its new respiratory panel combines tests for equine herpes virus types 1 and 4 (EHV-1 and EHV-4), sreptococcus equi and equine influenza virus.

The panel also offers the option of an additional test for equine arteritis virus.

Scott Moffitt, director of equine sales and marketing at Idexx, said: “We are pleased to offer these tests – the most recent additions to our real-time PCR test menu – in a single panel.”

He added that respiratory diseases can be ruled out or diagnosed with a single sample using the product.

Last month, Idexx Reference Laboratories teamed up with McAllister Software Systems to launch LabRexx through AVImark.