Value of BrBME tests

Information on the value the Brucellosis Bulk Milk ELISA (Enzyme Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay)(BrBME) test has shown in the detection of Brucellosis.

Over the four years from March 2000-2004, 254 non-negative herds were identified and subjected to blood testing. Of these, 106 had already been identified by other means as being at special risk and blood tests had been arranged. The remaining 148 were on a routine blood-testing regime when they showed non-negative to the BrBME. Of these, 41 were found to be infected with brucellosis. Thus the BrBME led to the detection of infected herds which might otherwise have been left to spread disease to their neighbours and further afield for up to two years before the presence of the disease would have been detected through routine testing. The test has therefore proved its worth beyond doubt.