Environmental Screening

Many unseen things can be detected using today's powerful new tools for forensic testing, such as PCR. Forensic techniques can be used to determine who licked the stamp on an envelope 50 years ago, for paternity testing, diagnose infectious diseases, and environmental screening. DNA is extremely stable, and can be detected long after the organism has entered the environment, even if it is no longer viable. A dry, sterile foam tipped swab (Swab Kits are available for purchase in the Sample Collection Supplies section, here) rubbed across areas to be tested will collect DNA, which can then be detected to identified any potential problems, from bed bugs in the master bedroom to Avian Polyomavirus in the nest box.

Testing is available to virtually anyone wishing to identify what is in his or her environment. Pet owners, homeowners, hobbyists and breeders, hotels, property managers, veterinarians, and others can all screen for a variety of pests and diseases with ease and minimal skill. Sampling requires no handling of animals or insects and is totally pain free!

1. Open only a single swab at a time for each test area or room.
2. Rub the swab in the general or suspect area for testing (do not be afraid to get it too dirty or dusty).
3. Place the swab back into individual protective holder or plastic bag and send to the lab.

Common sense is a good way to determine the areas to be tested. For example, when testing for bed bugs, swab around the bed and mattress to pick up bed bug DNA. For avian diseases, the best places to swab are areas near or around the birds, such as under and around the cage.

Real-time PCR results are reported from our laboratory as Positive, Low Level Positive, or Negative. A Positive result indicates that the organism is present, due to the presence of the DNA. A Low Level Positive means that DNA from the organism was detected, but there is very little of it there. A Negative result indicates that the organism is NOT present in the tested area or room.

Speed. Sampling the suspected areas can be performed in a matter of minutes using common sense and readily available household items. The sample can be sent overnight to the laboratory and results obtained in as little as 24 hours.

Cost. This inexpensive method of detection is significantly less than the cost of calling a pest control company to come out to examine the property or to have massive animal losses due to disease.

Accuracy. DNA testing is over 99.9% accurate! No other method can even come close every time.

Do it yourself. One of the best parts about DNA detection the ability to do it yourself. There are no additional costs, plus you can also be certain that all of the areas in question are examined discreetly and privately.

Peace of Mind. The #1 reason for DNA detection is peace of mind. Know for sure if you have a problem such as a bed bug infestation or if your pet is at risk from diseases in the environment.