What is required when an Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) test comes back positive?

When an Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) test returns a positive result, it is essential that the result be confirmed through additional testing to ensure accuracy. The confirmatory test most commonly used is the Agar Gel Immunodiffusion (AGID) test. This additional step is crucial for differentiating between true positive results and any potential false positives that could occur due to various factors, such as cross-reactivity with other diseases.

Handling a positive result in this manner is important not only for the welfare of the animal but also for the overall health management of other equines within the population. A confirmed positive result has significant implications, including the need for quarantine measures and potential culling of the affected animal to prevent disease spread.

Other responses do not align with standard protocols for dealing with positive EIA tests. For instance, simply notifying the farm owner without further testing would not address the need for confirmation of the disease status. Methods like redrawing tests or immediate disposal without confirmation do not align with the established veterinary protocols designed to protect animal health and prevent disease outbreaks effectively.