Where to send a tick for testing? - briefly
Submit the specimen to a certified entomology or public‑health laboratory that offers tick testing, such as the CDC Tick Testing Program or a state university vector‑borne disease lab. Place the tick in a sealed container with appropriate labeling before shipping.
Where to send a tick for testing? - in detail
Submitting a tick for laboratory analysis requires selecting a facility equipped to identify species and detect pathogens. The most reliable options include:
- State or provincial public health laboratories. These agencies routinely process arthropod specimens, provide results for common tick‑borne agents, and often offer free or low‑cost services to residents.
- University or college entomology departments. Academic labs maintain taxonomic expertise and may collaborate with public health officials for pathogen testing.
- Certified commercial diagnostic companies. Private firms specialize in molecular assays for Borrelia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, and other agents, typically offering rapid turnaround for a fee.
- Veterinary diagnostic laboratories. Veterinary clinics and animal health labs accept ticks collected from pets, providing results relevant to both animal and human health.
Shipping considerations are critical to preserve specimen integrity and comply with regulations:
- Package the tick in a sealed, breathable container such as a small vial with a cotton plug. Avoid excessive moisture; a dry environment prolongs DNA stability.
- Place the container inside a secondary sealed bag with absorbent material to prevent leakage.
- Label the package with the sender’s contact information, collection date, location, and host species, if known.
- Use a reputable courier that offers tracking and permits for biological samples. Declare the contents as “arthropod specimen for diagnostic testing” and include any required customs documentation for international shipments.
- Follow the receiving laboratory’s specific instructions regarding preservation medium (e.g., ethanol at 70 % or RNAlater) and temperature (refrigerated vs. frozen).
Before dispatch, verify that the chosen laboratory accepts external specimens and confirm any required paperwork, such as a requisition form or consent statement. Some facilities may require a fee schedule or a pre‑approval email. Maintaining clear communication ensures that the tick reaches the appropriate testing environment and that the results are reported promptly.