Getting a FAVN Rabies Titer Test

Approved Rabies Serology Laboratories for Testing Dogs

This is a very important step and requirement for entry into many of the Caribbean islands.

Why is the FAVN test needed for my pet?
The FAVN test is required by many rabies-free countries, regions or islands in order for dogs and cats to qualify for a reduced quarantine period prior to entry. A passing FAVN result ((>/= 0.5 IU/mL) provides proof of adequate response to rabies vaccination.

Is the FAVN Test the same as the OIE-FAVN Testing?
Yes, the OIE-FAVN (Office International des Epizooties) test is same as the FAVN test; the test is performed following the FAVN procedure in the OIE manual.

Is the FAVN Test the same as the RNATT?
Yes, the RNATT (Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test) is the same as the FAVN test. RNATT is a generic term which encompasses the FAVN method.

How long should I wait after my pet has been vaccinated before drawing the sample?
For the highest probability of obtaining a passing result, we recommend the pet be rabies vaccinated a minimum of two times. For optimum antibody response, wait 10-21 days between vaccination and taking the blood sample for testing (or 14-30 days if taking the blood sample after primary vaccination). However, some countries have strict requirements for the timing of the blood draw.

My pet has two microchip numbers, which one should I list on my FAVN form?
If an animal has two microchips, the first number listed on the submission form is the only one that will be on the official FAVN result label. Most destinations require an ISO microchip be implanted before the blood sample is drawn. Some destinations have scanners that only read certain brands of microchips. Choose which microchip to list first based on these and any other criteria the destination may have.

How much history of the rabies vaccination should I provide?
Record the dates of 2-3 rabies vaccinations beginning with the most recent. Please check with the destination for their specific requirements. It is recommended the animal have a minimum of two rabies vaccinations for best chance of achieving a passing titer of 0.5 IU/mL.

Important testing information for importing dogs into the Caribbean and certain islands:

  • Rabies Serology Test results must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
  • Serology results must be drawn a minimum of 30 days after the dog’s initial vaccination and at least 45 days before the date of importation.
  • Test results are valid for 1 year from the date the sample was drawn for most of the islands

If you are applying for a CDC Dog Import Permit, provide rabies serology test results from one of these laboratories:

Country

Laboratory

Brazil

Instituto Pasteur

For information, please email:
pasteur@pasteur.saude.sp.gov.br

China

Academy of Military Medical Sciences
Military Veterinary Research Institute,
Laboratory of Epidemiology, Centre for Rabies Antibody Assay.

For more information, please email:
ronglianghu@hotmail.com

China

Sino Tech World Biologicals Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd (Beijing)
29 Qingfeng West Road. Biological Medicine Base, Daxing District, Beijing
For more information, please call:
Tel: 010-89289960 13641321817

Germany

IDEXX Reference Laboratories
Vet Med Labor GmbH

Humboldtstraße 2
70806 Kornwestheim
(ehemals: 71636 Ludwigsburg)
Telefon: +49 (0) 69 153 253 290
Telefax: +49 (0) 7141 133 5993
e-mail: rabies@idexx.com
www: http://idexx.de

Greece

Hellenic Republic Ministry of Rural Development and Food; Department of Molecular Diagnostics, FMD, Virological, Ricketsial and Exotic Diseases Laboratory

Email: viruslab.ath@minagric.gr

Italy

Italy

IZS

Italy

Portugal

Russia

South Korea

Ukraine

State Scientific Control Institute of Biotechnology and Strains of Microorganisms. Department of Biotechnology and Quality Control of Viral Preparations

For more information, please email:
admin@biocontrol.com.ua

United Kingdom

United States

DoD Food Analysis & Diagnostic Laboratory

This laboratory is only available to Department of Defense (DoD) personnel and eligible beneficiaries.

United States