Where can you submit a tick for analysis? - briefly
Ticks can be submitted for analysis through the official online submission portal or by emailing the analysis team directly. Both methods accept detailed descriptions and accompanying images.
Where can you submit a tick for analysis? - in detail
Submitting a tick specimen for laboratory evaluation requires selecting a facility equipped to identify species, detect pathogens, and provide reliable results. Several options are available within the United States and internationally.
- State or provincial public health laboratories – typically accept ticks for routine testing of Lyme‑disease agents and other region‑specific pathogens. Contact the local health department for submission forms, packaging guidelines, and turnaround times.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – offers a specialized tick testing program for certain arboviruses and bacterial agents. Access the CDC website to download the “Tick Submission Kit,” which includes a pre‑paid envelope and detailed instructions.
- University entomology or veterinary schools – many academic institutions run diagnostic services for research and public health purposes. Examples include the University of Massachusetts Amherst Vector‑Borne Disease Laboratory and the University of Texas Medical Branch. Inquiries are directed to the department’s vector‑biology coordinator.
- Private diagnostic companies – firms such as Quest Diagnostics, Labcorp, and specialized pest‑control laboratories provide commercial tick analysis. Ordering is performed online; specimens are mailed in insulated containers with ice packs when required.
Key considerations for each option:
- Specimen integrity – place the tick in a sealed vial containing 70 % ethanol or a dry, sterile container, depending on the target analysis. Label with collection date, location (GPS coordinates if possible), and host information.
- Documentation – complete the required submission form, indicating suspected pathogen(s) and any clinical symptoms observed in the host. Attach a copy of the form to the exterior of the package.
- Shipping regulations – follow the carrier’s rules for biological specimens; most services permit standard ground shipping for ethanol‑preserved samples, while live or frozen ticks may require overnight delivery with temperature control.
- Result reporting – public health labs often provide results through electronic health record portals or secure email within 7–14 days. Private labs usually issue PDF reports within 5–10 business days, including species identification and pathogen panel outcomes.
Selecting the appropriate laboratory depends on the urgency of diagnosis, the specific pathogens of interest, and the availability of regional resources. For most routine inquiries, the nearest state health department offers the most direct and cost‑effective service. For comprehensive pathogen panels or research‑grade identification, university or private facilities provide expanded testing options.