The first of its kind, the IDEXX milk-based test optimizes reproductive efficiency and helps milk recording laboratories expand their services


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At the recent World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin, IDEXX announced the launch of the IDEXX Milk Pregnancy Test, the first milk-based test for detecting pregnancy as a means of optimizing reproductive efficiency in dairy herds. The ELISA-format test detects pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) to determine pregnancy status while minimizing animal handling. With a high level of sensitivity and specificity from ?35 days postbreeding and > 60 days postcalving, producers can work with dairy herd improvement (DHI) organizations to get early, accurate confirmation of open cows in less than 3.5 hours.

"Expanding the use of DHI milk samples to include confirmation of pregnancy is a simple, cost-effective way for producers to increase the efficiency of their total operation," says Olivier te Boekhorst, VP General Manager, IDEXX Livestock and Poultry Diagnostics. "At the same time, the IDEXX Milk Pregnancy Test also helps recording laboratories make their herd health management programs more attractive to their customers."

The IDEXX Milk Pregnancy Test seamlessly integrates into existing lab-based work flows. "We're excited to provide milk laboratories with a new revenue stream that adds value for their customers, shortening calving intervals to increase milk production and giving veterinarians the information and time they need to initiate proactive, preventive medicine," says Hannah Pearse, Marketing Manager, IDEXX Dairy.

The IDEXX Milk Pregnancy Test was developed in collaboration with leading milk laboratories in North America, Europe and New Zealand and is currently available. For more information about the test, please contact your IDEXX sales representative, your local distributor or visit www.idexx.com/reproduction.

About IDEXX Livestock and Poultry Diagnostics
For more than 25 years, IDEXX Livestock and Poultry Diagnostics has focused on improving the health of the world's food animals. Personnel around the globe work closely with customers, key opinion leaders, regulatory officials and agency heads to set up diagnostic testing programs. Rigorous quality control includes ISO certification and approvals from the USDA and international regulatory agencies that ensure quality, repeatability and reliability of test results. A global distribution network, an intimate knowledge of local conditions and languages and a seasoned, experienced staff make IDEXX uniquely qualified to provide laboratories, veterinarians and producers with diagnostic tests and technologies they can trust. The IDEXX portfolio addresses more than 50 pathologies affecting bovine, small ruminant, porcine, poultry and equine species.

About IDEXX Laboratories
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a leader in pet healthcare innovation, serving practicing veterinarians around the world with a broad range of diagnostic and information technology-based products and services. IDEXX products enhance the ability of veterinarians to provide advanced medical care, improve staff efficiency and to build more economically successful practices. IDEXX is also a worldwide leader in providing livestock and poultry diagnostic tests and tests for the quality and safety of water and milk. Headquartered in Maine, IDEXX Laboratories employs more than 5,000 people and offers products to customers in over 100 countries.

10.29.2012