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Submissions arriving at the NVSL are categorized for priority of processing. Mark the priority of a submission on a special label affixed to the outside of the shipping container and on the submittal form. A special label for this purpose is provided in all NVSL-supplied shipping containers. For assistance in determining the most appropriate priority, contact the AVIC for your state.
Priority 1
This priority is used when prompt laboratory diagnostic information is required because known investigation information makes it highly likely that the observed condition is a foreign animal disease / emerging disease incident (FAD/EDI). Specimens will be unpacked and examined, and diagnostic assays begun immediately upon arrival at the NVSL. Overtime will be used if necessary. Results will be reported by telephone, fax, and/or computer, according to program procedures, immediately as results are obtained (including progress reports) and upon completion of laboratory examination (final report). Contact the NVSL at the phone numbers listed in Appendices IV-A or IV-B of VS Memorandum 580.4 prior to shipping a Priority 1 submission.
Priority 2
This priority is used when known investigation information indicates it is possible that the observed condition is an FAD/EDI, but it cannot be distinguished from an endemic disease/condition. Therefore, rapid laboratory diagnostic information is necessary. Specimens will be processed the day they are received if the samples reach the laboratory before the close of the work day. Overtime will be used to finish the examination of specimens received before the close of the work day on weekdays, and for those received on weekends and holidays. Specimens arriving after the close of the work day will be examined the following day, including weekends. Results will be reported by telephone, fax, and/or computer as they are obtained (progress) and when examination is completed (final).
Priority 3
This priority is used when known investigation information indicates it is unlikely that the observed condition is an FAD/EDI and cannot be distinguished from an enzootic disease or condition. No overtime will be used for these nonemergency cases. Specimens will be processed according to accession number order, unless otherwise directed by the NVSL Case Coordinator or Laboratory Director. A specimen arriving after 4:00 p.m. on Friday will not be processed until Monday or later, depending on the current backlog of cases.
Priority A
This priority is used for those situations where any animals in commerce are held pending the results of testing for an FAD/EDI. It can also be used when other known or potential circumstances surrounding the investigation indicate that it would be prudent to obtain laboratory test results as rapidly as possible, regardless of the likelihood of the presence of an FAD/EDI. Priority A samples are processed in the same manner as Priority 1 samples. Contact the NVSL at the phone numbers listed in Appendices IV-A or IV-B of VS Memorandum 580.4 prior to shipping a Priority A submission.
NOTE: Any specimens received without a priority rating will be handled as Priority 3.