How long are ticks tested for infections? - briefly
Testing a removed tick for pathogenic microbes typically spans 2–4 weeks, with certain assays—especially those targeting slow‑growing organisms like Borrelia—extending up to 6 weeks.
How long are ticks tested for infections? - in detail
Ticks are examined for pathogens for a defined interval that depends on the laboratory protocol, the type of disease agent, and the life stage of the tick.
For most bacterial agents such as Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease), the detection window begins immediately after the tick is collected and continues until the sample is processed, typically within 24–48 hours. Laboratories that use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) require DNA extraction and amplification within this timeframe to prevent degradation of nucleic acids. If storage is necessary, specimens are frozen at –80 °C, which preserves integrity for several weeks, but the official testing period is still recorded as the time from collection to assay initiation.
Viral and protozoan pathogens often demand longer observation periods. When assessing for Powassan virus or Babesia spp., cultures or cell‑based assays may be maintained for up to 14 days to allow replication and detection. During this period, ticks are kept in sterile media at controlled temperature (usually 33–35 °C) and humidity to mimic the natural environment.
Standard practice for surveillance programs includes:
- Immediate processing: PCR or immunoassay within 48 hours of capture.
- Short‑term storage: Freezing at –80 °C for up to 30 days if immediate testing is not feasible.
- Extended culture: Up to 14 days for agents requiring replication before identification.
- Record‑keeping: Documentation of the exact elapsed time from collection to result, required for epidemiological reporting.
Regulatory guidelines (e.g., CDC, EU Reference Laboratories) stipulate that any delay beyond the recommended windows must be justified and noted, as prolonged storage can reduce sensitivity and increase false‑negative rates. Consequently, the effective testing duration is tightly controlled to ensure reliable detection of tick‑borne infections.