How do I sample using Boot Swabs/Overshoes?
Take two pairs of boot swabs from each flock (house or separate biosecure section
of the house). The boot swabs must be moistened before sampling is carried out-
clean tap water is suitable for this but some sampling kits will have pre-moistened
boot swabs.
Boot swabs should represent the whole area to which the birds have access. This
will include all the separate pens, littered and slattered areas (when they are
safe to walk on) and involves taking about 100 paces to cover an area of approximately
50% of the house.
Your boot swabs should be taken before replenishing bedding. On completion of sampling
in each area, carefully remove the boot swabs so as not to dislodge any adherent
material. The boot swabs can be placed together in the sealable bag provided for
dispatch within 24 hours.
Please ensure there is no contamination of swabs prior to their use and they do
not come into contact with any disinfectant.