TAPIR FIELD VETERINARY MANUAL - Tapir Specialist Group

8. Immunological Screening (Serology)
Serology data on both free-living and captive wildlife is a widely used and valuable tool for
field researchers. In populations where frequent interactions between wild and domestic
animals exist serum screening to detect specific pathogens antibodies is an important
evaluation in both groups. In these cases, mutual transmission of pathogens can occur,
and this condition in some cases directly affects human populations. These studies also
help with the identification of the role played by wildlife species in some diseases, and
provide an important scientific baseline for the implementation of control measures in the
case an epidemic disease arises.
In order to plan for any serological investigation and point out the most important
diseases in the region where the tapir captures will be taking place, it is recommended to
contact local governmental agencies and other epidemiology and sanitary agencies, as
well as human and animal health organizations. It is always recommended to compare
the results obtained with those of other species, especially domestic animals and humans,
in order to understand more deeply the importance of the tapir in the epidemiological
chain.
The screening for diseases of compulsive notification (either to the OIE - World
Organization for Animal Health - or local agencies) should be carefully considered by the
veterinarian in charge, taking into account the economic and social consequences of such
decision.
The interpretation of results should always take into account the sensibility and specificity
of the employed laboratory technique, as well as characteristics of the infectious agent
and of the tapir species.