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Canine and Feline Core Vaccine Titer Screening

Rabies Titer Test

The Micro Rabies Screen Test (MRS) is a serum neutralization assay based on the RFFIT. The MRS test measures rabies virus neutralizing antibody (RVNA) titers and is designed to give a rapid screening for evaluating the need for rabies boosters.

A review of rabies challenge-studies indicates that there is a positive correlation between rabies virus neutralizing antibody (RVNA) titers and the level of protection after virus challenge in dogs and cats. Pre-exposure vaccination coupled with a RVNA titer at or above 0.5 IU/mL indicates greater assurance of protection than does current vaccination status.

The recognized RVNA level of protection for rabies is 0.5 IU/mL. If the level is below 0.5 IU/mL a booster may be indicated depending on the pets rabies exposure risk level. Consult local rabies vaccination laws and regulations for final guidance. Veterinarians are obligated to be familiar with and follow legal requirements for vaccine administration accordingly.

Other Core Vaccine Serologic Tests

The current trend is to carefully assess each patient’s disease risk to determine if vaccine(s) are necessary and if so, which vaccine(s) would be appropriate. The use of serological titers can be a valuable tool in making those vaccine decisions especially in animals with histories of a previous vaccine reaction; those individuals prone to allergic reactions; in those specific cases where concerns of “over vaccinations” persist.

CAN INE: There is an excellent correlation between a “positive” titer and protection against viral challenge with canine distemper virus (CDV); canine adenovirus 1(CAV2); and canine parvovirus2 (CPV), and Rabies (RV).

CDV : SN > 1: 32

CAV 2: SN > 1: 32

CPV 2: HI > 1: 80

FELINE: In cats there is an excellent correlation between a “positive” titer and protection against challenge with the feline panleukopenia virus (FPL) and rabies virus (RV) but only a good correlation with feline herpesvirus (FHV1) and feline calicivirus (FCV) protection.

FPL: HI > 1: 16

FCV: SN > 1:16

FHV1: SN > 1:16

This test is ordered only through the on-line Electronic Core Vaccine Titer Screen Submission Form.