Fivet Laboratory Services is a division of Fivet, a trusted partner in profitable animal production, a leading provider of veterinary and animal health solutions. Our laboratory supports livestock and poultry farmers by offering advanced diagnostic services that optimize animal health, productivity, and disease prevention. Operating across five specialized sections—Microbiology, Serology, PCR, Nutrition, and HPLC & Post-Mortem—we ensure a comprehensive approach to animal health management.
SADCAS Accreditation & Quality Assurance
Fivet Laboratory Services is accredited by the Southern African Development Community Accreditation Service (SADCAS) for specific laboratory tests. Our ISO 17025-accredited serology and microbiology tests guarantee accurate and reliable results, with the same rigorous management system applied across all other testing sections.
To verify our accreditation status and view the scope of accredited tests, please refer to the official SADCAS accreditation certificates:
Serology Testing – Poultry Disease Monitoring
Serology testing helps monitor poultry health by detecting antibodies against key viral and bacterial infections, allowing for early intervention and improved flock performance.
- IBD – Infectious Bursal Disease: Affects immune system development in young chickens.
- NDV – Newcastle Disease Virus: Highly contagious, causing respiratory and nervous system issues.
- IBV – Infectious Bronchitis Virus: Reduces respiratory health and egg production.
- MG & MS – Mycoplasma Infections: Cause chronic respiratory disease and joint issues.
- REO – Reo Virus: Impacts growth and gut health.
- AE – Avian Encephalomyelitis: Causes neurological disorders in young birds.
- CAV – Chicken Anaemia Virus: Leads to immune suppression and increased disease risk.
- AI – Avian Influenza: A severe, highly contagious viral disease.
Molecular Biology – PCR (Real-Time PCR)
PCR testing is a highly sensitive diagnostic technique that detects diseases at the genetic level, enabling early disease identification and control.
Poultry PCR Testing
- MG – Mycoplasma gallisepticum: Detects respiratory infections.
- AI – Avian Influenza: Identifies both low and highly pathogenic strains.
- Salmonella species: Ensures poultry health and food safety.
Ruminant PCR Testing
- Chlamydia, Brucella, and Pathogenic Leptospira: Diagnoses reproductive diseases affecting fertility and milk production in cattle, sheep, and goats.
Microbiology & Hygiene Monitoring
Ensuring proper hygiene and microbial control is essential for disease prevention and livestock health.
- Hygiene Monitoring: Conducted in hatcheries, poultry houses, and abattoirs to ensure sanitation compliance.
- Surface Swab Analysis: Evaluates cleaning and disinfection effectiveness.
- Salmonella Monitoring: Identifies potential contamination risks in poultry production.
- Aspergillus Isolation: Detects fungal infections affecting respiratory health.
- Hygiene Contact Plates: Used for environmental monitoring, ensuring effective sanitation.
Water & Milk Quality Testing
Water and milk quality are critical to livestock health, productivity, and food safety.
Water Analysis
- Total Viable Counts: Measures bacterial contamination levels.
- Coliforms and E. coli Counts: Ensures water safety for animal consumption.
Milk Testing
- Nutritional Content Analysis: Assesses fat, protein, and lactose to ensure high-quality milk production.
- Somatic Cell Count (SCC): Measures somatic cells in milk, an indicator of udder health and mastitis infections.
- Milk Sampling for Culture & Sensitivity: Helps detect bacterial infections and guides effective treatment.
Mastitis Monitoring in Dairy Cows
Mastitis affects milk production and quality. Our testing services detect infections and help guide treatment plans.
- Bacterial Culture and Identification: Identifies the causative pathogens.
- Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing: Determines the most effective treatment options.
Dipwash Testing on HPLC
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) ensures optimal parasite control by analyzingdipwash solutions for accurate active ingredient concentration, improving treatment effectiveness.
Post-Mortem Service
Post-mortem examinations provide insights into disease causes, helping farmers implement preventive measures to reduce losses.
- Poultry Post-Mortem: Available at our Head Office (2 Telford Road, Graniteside, Harare) to diagnose mortality causes and improve flock management.
- Abortion Investigations in Cattle, Sheep, and Goats: Examination of aborted fetuses and placentae to identify infectious causes of reproductive failure. Testing is conducted in Zimbabwe and South Africa for comprehensive results.
Sample Collection Guidelines
Proper sample collection is essential for accurate test results. Farmers are advised to follow these best practices:
- Milk & Water Samples: Maintain at 2–8°C and submit within 24 hours.
- Swabs & Hygiene Samples: Store in a refrigerated environment and transport in a chilled container within 48 hours.
- Blood Collection for Serology: Use clot activator tubes for optimal sample integrity.
- Environmental Swabbing: Contact plates must be used correctly and labeled for effective monitoring.
Important Notice:
Before submitting samples for testing or post-mortem examinations, please contact our Technical Services team. Proper sample handling and timely submission enhance diagnostic accuracy.
By utilizing Fivet Laboratory Services, farmers gain access to cutting-edge diagnostic solutions that improve animal health, productivity, and profitability.
