• Marek’s disease PCR feather test for poultry, two feathers in a plastic bag
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Marek’s Disease Virus (MDV) PCR Test for Chickens

Marek’s Disease Virus (MDV) PCR Test for Chickens

$52.00 NZD
$52.00 NZD
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Marek’s Disease Virus (MDV) PCR Test for Chickens

Marek’s Disease Virus (MDV) PCR Test is a laboratory PCR screening test designed to detect Marek’s disease virus in poultry. This assay is performed by PVS Labs using freshly plucked feather samples and is commonly used as part of Marek’s disease investigation and flock health assessment programs.

Testing is performed through PVS Labs. Results are reviewed and interpreted by our avian veterinarian to help support accurate diagnosis and informed flock management decisions.

Marek’s disease is a highly contagious viral disease of chickens caused by a herpesvirus that may affect the nervous system, immune system, skin, eyes, and internal organs. Clinical signs can vary depending on disease form and may include:

  • Progressive paralysis
  • Weakness or lameness
  • Weight loss
  • Reduced growth
  • Sudden death
  • Tumour development
  • Uneven pupils or vision changes
  • Reduced flock performance

Important Information

This is a digital product. After purchase, you will receive instructions outlining how to collect and submit your sample for testing.

If you do not automatically receive your instructions and FEC submission form after purchase, please contact us at info@avianempire.co.nz.

Testing results should always be interpreted alongside clinical signs, husbandry, and veterinary guidance where appropriate.

Helpful Resources

Neurological signs, unexplained paralysis, weight loss, reduced flock performance, and sudden deaths can sometimes be associated with significant infectious disease events within poultry systems. Early testing, strong quarantine procedures, and good biosecurity practices can play important roles in long-term flock management. Check out our helpfull Marek's resource below:

How it Works

Once you have purchased a Marek's PCR from our site,

  1. You will be emailed a form.
  2. Print and complete the form.
  3. Pluck 2-3 feathers fresh from your chickens chest and put in a new/clean ziplock bag (do not use molted feathers)
  4. Mail the form and the sample to the address given.
  5. Results will be sent to Avian Empire to interpret and
  6. Avian Empire will then email the results on to you when they are received. 

Please allow approximately one week for results after your sample arrives at the lab.

What you are buying

  • A Marek's Disease PCR test for one chicken (performed on freshly plucked feathers) to be performed by PVS labs.
  • Results interpreted by our avian vet.  

What is Marek's disease

Marek's disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects poultry, particularly chickens. It is caused by the Marek's disease virus (MDV), which belongs to the herpesvirus family.

The disease primarily manifests as tumors in nerves, organs, and tissues, leading to paralysis, immunosuppression, and death in severe cases. It can spread rapidly within flocks through airborne transmission or contact with contaminated materials. Vaccination is the primary method for controlling Marek's disease in poultry populations.

Find out more below:

Marek's in poultry

Terms and Conditions

By purchasing a PCR test kit from Avian Empire, you agree to the following terms and conditions:

1. New Zealand Use Only

PCR testing services are available within New Zealand only. We cannot accept or process samples sent from overseas.

2. Non-Refundable Product

PCR test kits are non-refundable once purchased.

This includes situations where the kit is no longer required, samples are not collected, or samples are unable to be processed by the laboratory.

3. Sample Collection and Submission

  • You are responsible for collecting your sample following the instructions provided.
  • You are responsible for posting or couriering your sample to the designated laboratory.
  • Please keep your courier tracking number and receipt until results are returned.
  • Avian Empire is not liable for delays, losses, or damage that occur during shipping.

4. Packaging Requirements

  • Samples must be packaged securely to prevent leakage, contamination, or damage in transit
  • If a sample arrives at the laboratory leaking, contaminated, improperly packaged, or compromised, the laboratory will be unable to process it.
  • You will need to submit a new sample at your own cost, including any additional courier fees.

5. Laboratory Processing

  • All PCR testing is performed by an independent laboratory.
  • Turnaround times may vary depending on laboratory workload, sample quality, and courier delays.
  • Avian Empire is not responsible for laboratory processing delays.

6. Results

  • Results will be emailed to the contact details provided at checkout.
  • Results reflect only the sample submitted and should be interpreted in the context of flock history and clinical signs.
  • Veterinary follow-up may be recommended for treatment or flock-level management.

7. Liability

Avian Empire is not liable for:

  • Incorrect or unsafe sample collection
  • Poor packaging leading to leakage or contamination
  • Courier delays, losses, or failed delivery
  • Misinterpretation of results without veterinary guidance
  • Any decisions made based on test results without further consultation
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