Feline herpes virus QPCR
Feline herpes virus (FHV) is a common cause of upper respiratory disease in cats. It is widespread in the cat population and has a higher prevalence in multicat households. The virus is shed in ocular, nasal and oral secretions. FHV carrier status is widespread in the cat population despite vaccination and carrier cats can shed virus, particularly after being stressed. FHV infection leads to epithelial necrosis, with neutrophilic infiltration which normally take 2-3 weeks to resolve. The Molecular Diagnostic Unit has run a QPCR test for the detection of FHV for over 7 years.
The sample required for the FHV QPCR test is a plain or VTM conjunctival or oropharyngeal swab.
Additionally, each FHV QPCR includes an internal amplification control to ensure that a valid diagnostic result is produced for every submitted sample.
For more information about this assay please see our publications