The Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV) IgM ELISA test is a serological diagnostic tool designed to detect IgM antibodies specific to Eastern equine encephalitis virus in equine blood. EEEV is a mosquito-borne alphavirus that causes Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), a severe and often fatal neurological disease in horses. The disease typically presents with symptoms such as fever, depression, ataxia, behavioral changes, seizures, and paralysis.The IgM ELISA test is particularly valuable for diagnosing acute EEE infections, as IgM antibodies are produced early in the immune response. The test provides high sensitivity and specificity, allowing veterinarians to confirm recent exposure to EEEV and differentiate it from other encephalitides. Early detection through IgM ELISA testing enables timely implementation of supportive care, outbreak control, and vaccination recommendations, particularly in endemic regions during mosquito season.
2 ml Serum
Collect an adequate amount of blood in a plain red-top tube or serum separator tube (yellow-top tube). Allow it to clot at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before separation.
Centrifuge to separate the serum. Transfer the clear serum into a new, leak-proof plain red-top tube and label it as "serum."
Excessively hemolyzed samples are not suitable for this test.
Unspun samples will not be accepted.
Refrigerate sample at 4oC until shipment.
Label each sample with the animal’s name and a unique identifier, using a permanent marker or a secure adhesive label
Ensure the submittal form is completed with the animal’s information and relevant medical history.
Long, M.T., et al. "Diagnostic Advances in Mosquito-Borne Viral Neurological Diseases in Horses: The Role of IgM ELISA." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2021.
Schmitt, S.M., et al. "Serologic Testing for Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus in Equine Practice." Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 2022.
Bowen, R.A., et al. "The Utility of IgM ELISA in Diagnosing Acute Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus Infections." Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, 2023.