New RaDiCal Test for Calf Pneumonia

Lung inflammation from calf pneumonia has the chance of causing irreparable harm, and necessitating slaughter. According to predictions, this impacts the UK cattle sector by up to £50 million annually.

Scientists are working towards a functional RaDiCal test in time for autumn 2023, but it probably won’t be made commercially accessible for many years, potentially even until 2028. The test is being created by an association of companies and universities, headed by the Surrey vet school.

Senior Clinical Director of Westpoint Farm Vets, Tim Potter, explained that “enabling rapid on-farm detection of the pathogens responsible for pneumonia at the time of an outbreak will speed up the implementation of targeted control measures and enable vets to provide more evidence-based advice.”

The RaDiCal test will provide benefits for vets and farmers by making it possible for veterinarians to transfer a test sample onto a portable device without moving off the farm.

According to research leader Mark Chambers, Professor at the University of Surrey, test results should be visible in half an hour, as opposed to a minimum 24 hours for other test options like culture or PCR.

“We will be using our experience in veterinary infectious diseases and test development within an exciting consortium of other academics and representatives from industry, large animal veterinary practice, and farmers themselves at the sharp end of managing calf pneumonia.”

“Through this close partnership and ongoing consultation, we shall ensure we develop a test that meets the needs of the cattle industry.”

According to leader of agriculture and animal health at GADx, Alison Wakeham, they will be “working alongside other experts in this field through the consortium and with the support of BBSRC funding, progressing the project and bringing the transformative test to market.”

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