Ferlavirusvirus infections are most commonly found in vipers, elapids, and colubrids, but are also seen in boas and pythons. Clinical signs of disease include nasal discharge, dyspnea, recurring, therapy resistent pneumonia as well as CNS signs. In live animals, virus can be detected in oral and cloacal swabs or tracheal washes by PCR. Appropriate tissues for testing include lung, intestine, liver, and kidney.
Chelonian
In turtles and tortoises, the virus is associated with respiratory disease
Lizards
Ferlaviruses are mostly found in snakes, but can also infect lizards. Clinically, infected lizards may appear healthy or may develop respiratory disease. Virus detection is carried out as described for snakes.
Sample Requirements
Snakes:Oral and cloacal swabs, tracheal washes, lung, liver, kidney, pancreas
Chelonian: Oral and cloacal swabs, lung, liver, kidney, intestine
Lizards: Oral and cloacal swabs, lung, liver, intestine
