Bulgarian puppies free of rabies !
The two Bulgarian pups, which have been imported in The Netherlands, appeared to have false positive rabies test results!
When a suspicion of rabies is reported to the Dutch authorities an immunofluorescence test (IFT) is performed in order to determine if any measures are necessary. As both IFT tests in this case gave a positive result, the Dutch Authorities acted upon these results. Thereafter a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test in combination with virus isolation was performed in order to confirm the results of the IFT. The PCR performed in the case of the two imported pups gave an inconclusive result. The virus isolation gave a negative result. The Dutch Central Veterinary Institute (CVI) thereafter requested the AFSSA in Nancy to retest both samples. On November 29th the final results indicating both dogs tested negative for rabies.
The CVI is investigating what caused the false positive results. Although the IFT test is very reliable. False positive results do occur.
 
It nevertheless highlights the importance that all veterinarians dealing with travelling pets follow closely the guidelines for the Pet Passport Scheme.