Virbac Launches In-house Diagnostics Test For Leishmaniosis

Virbac Animal Health has enhanced its ‘Speed’ diagnostics range with the introduction of Speed Leish K™, a quick and easy to use diagnostic test for canine leishmaniosis. The announcement of Speed Leish K comes after Virbac UK unveiled CaniLeish®, the first EU developed vaccine against the disease at World Congress earlier this year. Speed Leish K detects antibodies directed against the kinesins of leishmania using a Kinesin Capture Complex (KCC), a complex of recombinant proteins with strong immunogenic power at all stages of infection. In trials the test has demonstrated 98.5% overall accuracy.^* Commenting on the launch of Speed Leish K, Virbac Product Manager Simon Boulton MRCVS said: “Leishmaniosis presents a growing threat to UK dogs, particularly those which travel with their owners on holiday to regions where the disease is endemic. Speed Leish K should be used as part of the primary CaniLeish vaccination protocol in animals previously at risk of exposure to ensure only health animals are vaccinated. The test can also be used to screen for the disease in animals suspected to be infected. Speed Leish K is presented in kits of two or six tests and can be stored for 24 months at room temperature. Virbac is the largest independent veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world. Founded by a veterinary surgeon, the company is dedicated to supporting the veterinary profession through the development of innovative products and services, which support their businesses and help animals lead longer, healthier lives. ^* C CHene J, Bourdoiseau G, Chabanne L et al. Comparison of a rapid immunochromotographic test with immunoflourescence assay for the detection of anti-Leishmania infantum antibodies in dog. 2nd Congresso Internazionale SCIVAC – Leishmaniosi canina. Pisa – Italy, April 2010

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