Sci-Tech has officially received an Extension to Scope for ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation from UKAS for its in-house procedure designed to detect antibodies against Mycoplasma gallisepticum (Mg) in gamebirds. The approval marks a significant milestone for both the business and the industry, as it provides a reliable, scientifically validated method for the detection of this important pathogen in gamebirds.
‘Although there are commercial ELISA kits available for testing chicken and turkey sera for Mg antibodies, no-one else had previously attempted to validate a procedure for gamebirds,’ said Allen German, Technical & Compliance Manager at Sci-Tech. ‘The project required additional work by myself and the team to set acceptable test limits and ensure the test would delivery accurate, consistent results for our customers. We knew how important this validation was for the industry, so we were determined to make it happen—and we have the expertise to see it through.’
Gamebirds have a less well-characterised immune response than commercial poultry like chickens. This means that their immune systems may be slower to react to pathogens like Mg. While chickens typically show detectable antibodies 2-3 weeks post-infection or vaccination, in some gamebird species it can take 3-5 weeks or even longer. This delay can lead to false negatives in serological testing if conducted too early.
‘Mycoplasma gallisepticum is a persistent and potentially devastating pathogen for game farms,’ Allen explained. ‘Once infected, game birds remain carriers for life, silently spreading the disease to other birds, including their eggs, and posing a significant risk to the overall health of the flock. Mg also damages the birds’ airways, making them more vulnerable to other infections, which leads to underdeveloped growth and additional veterinary expenses. Early detection, as well as confirming presence of Mg antibodies in vaccinated birds, is crucial to prevent the long-term economic and health impact that can arise from undiagnosed outbreaks.’
Additionally, having an accredited testing procedure provides critical support for game farms aiming to meet export requirements. Many international markets, regions, and customers require proof that birds are free from Mg before allowing export. Without reliable testing, farmers risk not being able to guarantee the health of their flocks, potentially blocking sales and causing significant losses.
‘This Extension to Scope isn’t just about advancing our expertise at Sci-Tech: it’s about improving the health and productivity of the entire gamebird industry,’ Allen said. ‘Our team has worked tirelessly to validate this procedure and meet the rigorous standards set by UKAS. The extension of our scope means that gamebird farms now have access to a method of testing that has been fully accredited and proven to work, providing a level of confidence that was previously unavailable. Ultimately, by providing reliable and scientifically validated testing, we are helping farms manage disease risks, improve animal welfare, and ensure they meet the necessary standards for export.’
For more details on our veterinary diagnostics services, contact us.
