UPDATE, September 9, 2021 - We have received the reagent and have completed testing on all samples that had been stored. Johne’s culture can be requested. However, please note that PCR may be the preferred test method for cases where a faster turnaround time is needed. Please see Mycobacterium Paratuberculosis (Johne’s Disease) for more information about testing options and sample submission.

UPDATE, June 24, 2021 - The reagent delay continues and has been extended to mid-August.

UPDATE, June 7, 2021 - The new tentative shipment for the reagent is June 29 but is subject to change or delay.

UPDATE, May 7, 2021 - Tentative shipment for the reagent is June 7 but is subject to change or delay.

April 22, 2021 - Due to nationwide reagent backorder, Johne’s culture assays are temporarily unavailable. Affected assays include:

• Mycobacterium Paratuberculosis Cul. Maximum (95057)
• Mycobacterium Paratuberculosis Cul. Pooled Fecal (95058)
• Mycobacterium Paratuberculosis Cul. Pooled Follow-up (95059)
• Mycobacterium Paratuberculosis Cul. Routine (95060)

We have been provided with a tentative shipment date of May 7, 2021 but that is subject to change. Clients requesting one of these tests during this time will be contacted.

We are approved by the USDA to perform the Johne’s Direct PCR on both individual (95072) and pooled (95073) samples. Direct PCR uses molecular technology to identify bacterial DNA in the sample, providing accurate and rapid detection of MAP fecal shedding. The direct PCR sensitivity and specificity are comparable to culture. Turnaround time for this assay is much shorter than culture with results available in 2-7 days.

If culture is requested, samples will be stored appropriately until reagent arrives and testing resumes. We apologize for this unavoidable disruption to our service.

Please contact the Bacteriology Laboratory with any questions.