From:
Ferretwise
Date: 2001-07-24 18:40:00 UTC
Subject: Re: [Ferret-Health-list] Re: ADV Home Tests From Avecon
HI MC & readers-
It is MY understanding a positive Elisa means that there was an exposure
to ADV! The positive is because the ferret has developed titers to the AD
Virus. It (AD) may not be actively shedding -- it may be dormant -- it may
stay dormant- - but the exposure has been made and there is the possibility
that the virus could become active thus exposing more ferrets to the
disease. . The problem with ADV is that while many ferrets will not
become AD active others will. I would now send a blood sample for CEP in
to United for a definitive read on the positive that has tested negative by
Elisa -- it is quite possible that right now it is dormant-- but may be
triggered by an immune system suppression. This is the dilemma of ADV and
a reason to develop a vaccine!
My understanding in reading Dr Murray's report is that it is possible for
the new ADV Quickchek test to miss about 5%, still I would rather miss 5%
than risk the 95% and pass exposures on! We need to find the comfort
area-- and with ADV not sure if there is one.
Alicia
at Ferret Wise
www.ferretwise.org