Anthrax, Tularemia and Plague Submission Guidelines

Please follow instructions closely. This ensures the safety of all persons involved and the quality of test results.

• The SDSU ADRDL tests for anthrax (Bacillus anthracis), tularemia (Francisella tularensis) and plague (Yersinia pestis). All three bacterial organisms are considered select agents and are reportable diseases.
• Special handling and packaging are required when submitting a sample suspected of containing one of these bacterial organisms. Bacteria may be present in the lesions, exudates, blood and tissues from infected animals, fluids from infected animals and fluids from infected arthropods. Exposure to these organisms can occur by direct contact of skin or mucous membranes with infectious materials or accidental parenteral inoculation, ingestion or exposure to aerosols and infectious droplets. If exposure occurs, there is a possibility infection can occur. To protect yourself, wear gloves and other appropriate personal protective equipment when handling animals and collecting samples for diagnostic testing.
• For the safety of laboratory staff, never send needles with the sample.
• A list of appropriate samples for testing can be found on individual test listings on the online fee schedule or call the laboratory at 605-688-5689.

Packaging and Shipping Guidelines

• Fill out a general submission form. It is important to include case history, number and type of samples submitted, indicate animal IDs (if submitting samples from more than one animal) clearly and what select agent test is required.
• Send sealed, clearly labeled samples in a secondary plastic resealable bag containing paper towels or other absorbent material. Place the sealed bag with the sample in a Styrofoam shipping container with a frozen icepack.
• Place submission form in a sealable bag and place on the outside of the Styrofoam shipping container.
• Write which agent is suspected clearly on the outside of the Styrofoam container, e.g., suspect anthrax, suspect tularemia, suspect plague. Do not write this on the outer cardboard box.
• Place the Styrofoam container inside a rigid outer cardboard box and seal. Attach a biological substance category B, UN3373 label on the outside of the box. Next day delivery is recommended.

Note: Do not place any other samples in the box. If the sample is positive, all other samples in the same container will be destroyed.