What is an inconclusive reactor?

Information on what an inconclusive reactor is when referring to the tuberculin test to detect Tuberculosis (TB).

Some animals give a reaction to the tuberculin test which is less than the reaction which would classify them as reactors but it is not a negative test result. These animals must be tested again not less than 42 days after the first test. Until the re-test is carried out, these inconclusives must be isolated from other animals in the herd to avoid any risk that infection might spread.

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) will issue a notice (BT21) to you giving the identification number of the inconclusive reactor and requiring it to be isolated. The notice also explains that the animal may not be moved from the farm unless a licence for it to move is issued by DARD. Inconclusives will only be licensed to move directly to slaughter in a slaughterhouse in Northern Ireland.