Cornell University's Animal Health Diagnostic Center (AHDC) has developed the world's first diagnostic test for canine pneumovirus, and the institution has made the test available to veterinarians.

According to a Cornell news release, it is the first test to accurately distinguish canine pneumovirus from other pathogens that are also known to cause respiratory illness. 

The canine pneumovirus test is part of a larger diagnostic panel from Cornell aimed at detecting viruses and bacteria connected to canine respiratory diseases. According to the AHDC, the panel makes use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to analyze samples for pathogens including parainfluenza 5, respiratory coronavirus (beta coronavirus), pneumovirus, adenovrus (types 1 and 2), distemper, and influenza. It can also detect Mycoplasma cynos and Bordatella bronchiseptica - bacteria capable of infecting humans.

The panel's fast and accurate detection method improves the chances of preventing outbreaks of respiratory diseases in areas where dogs are kept in close quarters, the university reported.

"It's faster and more reliable than previous methods," said Dr. Amy Glaser, director of the AHDC's molecular diagnostics lab. "It can also detect multiple pathogens in a single sample, which frequently occurs. It greatly simplifies testing and will make it easier for veterinarians to get answers for their patients."

Information for veterinarians

Veterinarians have the option of ordering individual PCR tests ($36.75) or as a panel for a discounted rate ($115), the university said. Test results are returned to veterinarians three to five days business days after the laboratory receives the samples.

Visit the ADHC website for more information and instructions on how to order the diagnostic tests.