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Submissions arriving at the NVSL are categorized for priority of processing. Priority of a submission should be marked on a special label affixed to the outside of the shipping container and marked on the submittal form. A special label is provided for this purpose in all NVSL-supplied shipping containers.
Priority 1
This priority should be used when prompt laboratory diagnositic 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, examined, and diagnostic assays begun immediately upon arrival at the NVSL. Overtime will be used if necessary. Results will be reported immediately as results are obtained (including progress reports) by telephone, fax, and/or computer, according to program requirements, and upon completion of laboratory examination (final report).
Priority 2
This priority is used when known investigation information makes it possible that the observed condition is an FAD/EDI, but cannot be distinguished from an endemic disease/condition; and 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 completed (final).
Priority 3
This priority is used when known investigation information makes it 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 Chief. 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 bing 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 the same as Priority 1 samples.
NOTE: Any specimens received without a priority rating will be handled as a Priority 3.
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