Answers about samples, results and test reports.
What does an ERHR test show?
It shows whether the selected PCR investigation detected the relevant pathogen material in the submitted oral swab. It is a laboratory result for that sample and sampling date, not a complete statement about the animal’s health.
Can a result be false positive or false negative?
Yes. Contamination can contribute to a false positive, while insufficient or degraded material can contribute to a false negative. Following the sampling and handling instructions precisely reduces these risks.
Does a negative result rule out infection?
No. An infected animal may not be shedding detectable amounts at the time of sampling. Timing in relation to possible exposure matters, and a veterinarian may recommend repeat testing when exposure is recent or clinical suspicion remains high.
What happens if my reptile tests positive?
If a PCR test returns a positive result, you will receive the laboratory result together with information about the finding and relevant next steps.
A positive result may have implications for other reptiles in your collection. Depending on the pathogen, further testing, isolation, quarantine measures or changes in hygiene procedures may be appropriate.
Can I get veterinary advice about a positive result?
Yes. Optional veterinary collection health consultations are available following positive or complex test results.
During the consultation, we can discuss:
- The significance and limitations of the PCR result
- Which other animals in your collection may need testing
- Isolation and quarantine plans
- Hygiene and biosecurity measures
- Follow-up and retesting strategies
- Considerations regarding breeding, introduction of new animals and movement between collections
30-minute online consultation: €109. The consultation focuses on interpretation, testing strategy and health management at collection level. If an individual animal requires clinical examination, diagnosis or medical treatment, you may be advised to contact a veterinarian who can examine the animal in person.
Do I need to book a consultation after a positive result?
No. Veterinary consultation is entirely optional. You will receive your laboratory result regardless of whether you choose to book a consultation.
Can a small snake hatchling be tested?
Often, but sampling must suit the animal's species and size. Do not force the mouth open to obtain an oral swab. If gentle sampling is not possible, contact us before collecting the sample. A negative PCR result from a young animal describes that sample and date; it does not guarantee the animal will remain negative. Repeat testing may be relevant after exposure or when the parents are infected.
Who may take the oral swab?
An owner may take the sample using the supplied kit and guide. Venomous, aggressive, very weak or clinically affected animals should be sampled by a veterinarian.
Can several investigations use one swab?
Compatible investigations for one animal can be ordered on the same oral swab. Samples from different animals are never combined.
Will the sample remain suitable during transport?
Yes. ERHR sampling and transport methods are selected for PCR testing and normal transport to the laboratory.
PCR detects genetic material (DNA or RNA) from the relevant pathogen. The microorganism therefore does not need to remain alive or infectious when the sample reaches the laboratory.
For the sample types used, genetic material can remain stable during normal transport. Send the sample as soon as practical after collection and always follow the instructions supplied with the specific test kit.
Avoid unnecessary heat, direct sunlight and prolonged storage.
Does the sample need to be refrigerated?
Always follow the instructions provided for the specific test. If refrigeration is required, this will be clearly stated in the sampling instructions.
Do not add ice packs, transport medium or liquid to the sample unless specifically instructed.
What happens if shipping is delayed?
A minor shipping delay does not necessarily mean that the sample can no longer be analysed.
If a sample has been in transit for an unusually long period or has been exposed to excessive heat, ERHR or the laboratory may assess whether the sample remains suitable for testing or whether a new sample should be submitted.
Why can a dry swab be used for PCR?
PCR does not require viruses or bacteria to remain alive. The analysis detects specific genetic material from the pathogen being tested.
Dry swabs are therefore used for a range of molecular diagnostic tests. However, the appropriate sampling and transport method depends on the pathogen and laboratory assay.
How and when should the sample be sent to the laboratory?
Each test kit includes a prepaid UPS return label. Once the sample has been collected and securely packed, drop the box off at any UPS Access Point.
We recommend dropping off the parcel on Sunday, Monday or Tuesday so it reaches the laboratory in Germany during the normal working week, avoiding unnecessary weekend holds in distribution hubs.
Standard transit time within Europe is 1–3 business days, which is compatible with dry swab samples intended for PCR testing.
What does "Exempt Animal Specimen" on the box mean?
"Exempt Animal Specimen" is the international transport classification for veterinary diagnostic samples where the likelihood of pathogen transmission during routine transit is minimal.
The sample is packed in three protective layers: a sealed sample tube, a grip-seal specimen bag and a rigid outer box.
The labelling shows the courier (UPS) and transport authorities that the parcel complies with applicable transport regulations and does not require dangerous goods declarations.
Why test when there is no cure?
Screening is about prevention, not treatment. Knowing an animal’s status helps you decide on quarantine, protect the rest of your collection and make informed choices when buying, selling or introducing new animals.
A result applies to the sample and sampling date and does not replace quarantine or veterinary advice.
Why not just send the sample directly to a laboratory?
With ERHR you receive a kit and sampling guide, each swab gets its own Sample ID, and the result is delivered as a digital test report that can be verified publicly if you choose to share it.
If a result is positive, you can get veterinary-led guidance on next steps.
What is publicly visible?
A public record lookup is limited to the report information needed to verify the animal, investigation, issue date, issuing laboratory and current status. Account, contact, delivery and source-document information is not part of the public lookup.
How is private information protected?
Customer, order, sample and original laboratory information is handled as confidential information and restricted to the account holder and authorised registry or laboratory personnel according to their role. See the Privacy section for details.
Does ERHR replace a veterinarian?
No. The information about viruses and bacteria and the sampling guide are reference information. Diagnosis, treatment and decisions about repeat testing belong with a veterinarian who can assess the animal and its history.