-The advent of molecular diagnostics such as PCR and rt-PCR has provided new tools for rapidly and accurately diagnosing poultry diseases. It is now possible to sequence the genome of many pathogens. Sequencing allows comparing isolates to better understand the disease epidemiology.

Samples: Tissues, swabs and body fluids can be submitted for molecular diagnostics.

-Samples for PCR, virus isolation, bacterial isolation or other tests can be obtained from swabbing the oral, trachea, cloaca, affected joints, and organs.

- Collection of Swabs Cotton tipped swabs are an effective, non-invasive method for sampling for Mycoplasmas, bacteria, and many viruses (examples: infectious bronchitis, avian influenza, infectious laryngotracheitis, Newcastle).