Where should ticks be sent for analysis? - briefly
Ticks should be mailed or delivered to a qualified entomology or public‑health laboratory, such as a state health department vector‑borne disease unit or a university research facility with certified tick‑identification services. Include proper packaging, a cold chain if required, and a completed request form specifying the purpose of analysis.
Where should ticks be sent for analysis? - in detail
Ticks collected for diagnostic or research purposes must be forwarded to facilities equipped to handle arthropod specimens and conduct molecular or serological testing. The most reliable options include:
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State public health laboratories – accredited agencies that perform species identification and screen for common tick‑borne pathogens such as Borrelia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia and Rickettsia. Contact the state health department for submission protocols and required paperwork.
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University or college entomology departments – academic labs often run tick‑identification services and may offer pathogen testing through graduate‑level research projects. Verify the department’s capacity and any associated costs before shipping.
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Veterinary diagnostic laboratories – commercial or university‑affiliated veterinary labs accept animal‑derived ticks and provide comprehensive panels for canine and feline tick‑borne diseases. Submit specimens according to the lab’s cold‑chain guidelines.
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Federal agencies such as the CDC’s Division of Vector‑Borne Diseases – accept ticks from public health investigations, especially when unusual species or emerging pathogens are suspected. Follow the CDC’s specimen‑submission forms and packaging instructions.
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Private specialty laboratories – companies that specialize in vector‑borne disease testing accept individual or bulk tick samples. Ensure the laboratory holds CLIA certification or equivalent accreditation for reliable results.
When preparing specimens, follow these practices:
- Place each tick in a separate, labelled vial containing 70 % ethanol or a dry, sterile container if live testing is required.
- Record collection data: date, geographic coordinates, host species, and environmental conditions.
- Include a completed submission form that specifies the desired analyses (species identification, pathogen PCR, serology, etc.).
- Ship using insulated packaging with ice packs for live specimens or maintain ethanol‑filled vials at ambient temperature for preserved samples.
Choosing the appropriate facility depends on the intended analysis, geographic location, turnaround time, and budget. State labs provide the most standardized public‑health reporting, while university and private labs may offer faster or more specialized testing.