How do I use the kit?
The Rabies RAPID™ Screen kit is non-instrument based and includes everything you will need to test your sample.
Simply swab the suspected surface with the provided cotton swab and extract this sample in the provided buffer for 15 minutes. Transfer sample to the RAPID™ test strip. Results appear in the results window in about 35 minutes.
Can the RAPID rabies screen be used in place of the direct fluorescence antibody (FAB) assay to diagnose rabies?
No. The RAPID rabies screen should be used with quarantine and all other state and local regulations to help determine if an animal is positive for rabies and should be euthanized for the FAB assay. Hopefully use of the RAPID rabies screen will reduce the number of non-infected animals euthanized and sent for the FAB assay each year. The number of non-infected animals euthanized each year for the FAB assay just in the U.S. is over 100,000.
If an animal has rabies won't it become obvious during the quarantine period?
No. Approximately 60% or more of infected animals have paralytic or "dumb" rabies in which the animal appears to be docile and non-aggressive.
What is the rabies antigen?
The rabies antigen is the protein coat around the virus which produces an immune response in the body. It remains intact whether the virus is alive and active or dead.
Can the Rabies RAPID™ Screen detect the presence of a dead virus?
Yes, since the antigen (protein coat) remains intact after the virus is dead, the rabies RAPID™ Screen can detect antigens from any surface that has come in contact with the virus.
Why is it important to be able to detect the presence of the dead rabies virus?
Detection of the dead virus (antigen) from the surface of an object is an indication that an animal carrying the rabies virus has come in contact with that object. For example, if you are a pet owner who finds something unusual in the yard, such bones or garbage strewn about, you can test them with the Rabies Rapid™ Screen. If these surfaces test positive for the rabies antigen, this means that an animal with the rabies virus has been in close contact with these items, and a little too close to you and your pet. The virus may no longer be alive, but it’s telltale antigen will alert you to your risk. Testing with Rabies Rapid Screen™ allows you to find out so you can take steps to protect your family and pets, such as fencing in the yard, supervising small children and making sure your pet’s vaccine is up-to-date.
What will my Rapid™ Screen results tell me?
Negative
A negative result does not guarantee that rabies is not present, so the test is not suitable for clinical diagnosis at this time.
Positive
A positive result would be cause for alarm and signal the need for caution and further testing.
Are test kits available for other infectious diseases?
Available Now
Rabies Rapid™ Screen
In Development
Polio RAPID™ Screen
Pneumonia Rapid™ Screen
Customized Rapid™ Screen Kits
Early Detection of Cancer
Bubonic Plague
What does each screening kit include?
RAPID™ Screen test linear flow test strips
Cotton swabs for sample collection
Individual pre-measured buffer containers
Pipettes
Instructions
How can I order a kit?
To order a Rabies RAPID™ Screen, complete this simple order form and return with your payment.
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