Isolated regions of the world are often at the forefront of emerging
diseases and, to be effective in disease prevention and control, they
require basic resources for field sample collection and testing in
conditions vastly different from those available in well-equipped
reference laboratories. Technical support for field extension staff, and
the availability of reliable diagnostic testing facilities, are also
vital to ensure sustainable livelihoods for subsistence farmers. This
technical handbook aims to provide an easy to follow overview of the
basic laboratory techniques, and sample collection guidelines, that we
consider useful for staff working in district veterinary facilities in
regions that lack the infrastructural support available for staff with
ready access to national veterinary laboratories. The Veterinary
Laboratory and Field Manual 3rd Edition provides the reader with a
summary of basic diagnostic procedures and sample submission guidelines
and also advocates for improved communication between animal health
extension staff, veterinarians, laboratory staff and farmers. Case
studies are used to illustrate key concepts. Basic laboratory
disciplines are covered including - parasitology, microbiology,
haematology, serology / immunology and pathology. There are also
sections on laboratory infrastructure and equipment. There is additional
content on common clinical presentations, One Health approaches to
Antimicrobial resistance, the role of the OIE, disease surveillance and
wildlife disease monitoring. Supplementary tools for use in the field
and laboratory are also available online. This new edition of The
Veterinary Laboratory and Field Manual is updated to include content on
pen side tests, selection and integration of new technologies,
engagement with international agencies and programs, and the One Health
approach to disease monitoring. Animal Health extension staff in
isolated regions of the world, and NGOs, can benefit from this book as
well as policy makers supporting veterinary work in rural areas and
veterinary para-professionals involved in One Health work.
