SNAP® BVD Test

An easy-to-use test that detects high levels of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) antigen in ear-notch and serum samples within 20 minutes. The test is based on the same trusted enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technology that is used in SNAP® tests for small-animal practices and laboratories.

The SNAP BVD Test is a highly sensitive and specific test. The performance is matched to the widely used IDEXX BVDV Ag Test.

The SNAP BVD Test can be run with small or large ear-notch samples or serum samples. We recommend you choose a large ear-notch sample, as this sample type delivers results in 20 minutes without any interference from maternal antibodies. Refer to the test protocol or product insert for more information.

Positive results from this assay are valid for calves of any age. Serum should be obtained from precolostral newborn calves or calves older than 3 months of age to prevent the presence of maternal anti-BVDV antibodies from interfering with the SNAP BVD Test. For more information, please refer to the product insert or contact IDEXX Technical Services.

Yes, vaccination is not enough to eliminate BVDV. Along with vaccination and biosecurity programs, testing new introductions to the herd can help stop the spread of the disease.

It’s highly unlikely that the SNAP BVD Test would detect anything other than a persistent infection (PI). In most acute cases, the levels of BVDV antigen are expected to be lower and shorter in duration than in persistent infections. However, IDEXX encourages you to confirm a positive result with a second test as outlined in the product insert—especially for high-value animals.

We recommend opening the foil pouches immediately before planned usage. However, IDEXX research has found no statistical difference in performance between SNAP® devices handled according to the product insert.

Yes, the SNAP BVD Test should be run on all new introductions to the herd at calving or with replacement heifers. However, IDEXX recommends using your local laboratory for high-volume herd testing.

We recommend refrigerating the box upon arrival at your clinic. Please call IDEXX Technical Services with any specific concerns.

The test requires room temperature and a controlled environment. Conditions like excessive sun or rain can affect the accuracy of the result. We suggest running the test inside, for example, the farm office or back at your clinic.

No, at this time the SNAP BVD Test is not compatible with any IDEXX SNAP Readers. You must read the results visually.

No, formalin-fixed tissues cannot be run on the SNAP BVD test. Formalin will destroy the antigen signal and result in a false-negative test.

No, the SNAP BVD Test is validated and USDA-approved for individual ear-notch samples and individual serum samples. Pooling samples results in a loss of sensitivity and leads to false- negative results. Further, samples in a pool with neutralizing antibodies could also lead to false- negative results. When testing for BVDV PI animals, it is important not to pool samples on any test.