Avian Influenza (H5N1) PCR

Emerging Respiratory Threat Detection in Companion Animals

Molecular detection of H5N1 in cats and dogs to support rapid clinical decision-making and biosecurity response.

✔ Real-Time PCR detection of H5N1
✔ Fast turnaround (2–3 business days)
✔ Supports early identification of zoonotic risk
✔ Designed for respiratory and systemic cases

Why Order This Test

Recent reports have confirmed H5N1 infections in companion animals, particularly cats, with increasing concern around cross-species transmission.

Clinical presentation can be non-specific or severe, making early laboratory confirmation critical.

This test is designed to:

Detect active H5N1 infection at the molecular level
Support rapid isolation and infection control decisions
Assist veterinarians in managing respiratory and neurologic cases of unknown origin
Provide clarity in high-risk exposure scenarios (raw diets, wildlife contact)

When Should This Test Be Ordered?

Consider H5N1 PCR in the following situations:

• Acute respiratory disease (coughing, dyspnea)
• Sudden onset of severe illness in cats
• Neurological signs with unknown cause
• Fever with rapid clinical deterioration
• History of exposure to birds or wildlife
• Raw poultry diet exposure
• Clusters of illness in multi-animal households

This test is particularly valuable when standard respiratory panels are negative but clinical suspicion remains high.