Our staff is often asked, “Why is a frozen icepack necessary for sample shipments?” The short answer is that test results are less reliable when samples experience temperature fluctuations in transit. Here’s the long answer… Galaxy Diagnostics currently offers two types of diagnostic testing for flea- and tick-borne pathogens: molecular and serology. Molecular assays, such […]
Zoonotic Diseases and Why We Are So Interested in Bats
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 75% of new human diseases discovered in the last decade are caused by zoonotic pathogens. The bat is a host that is uniquely perfect to evolve pathogens that are dangerous to people. One Health is an outlook that brings animal health, human health and environmental experts together to […]
Is Exposure to Fleas and Ticks Possible During The Winter?
Research shows that the tick species I. scapularis can remain active at temperatures as low as 30.9 degrees Fahrenheit. In moderate winters, the fact is that flea and tick prevention is a year-round need in most of the world. In general, however, exposure is extremely limited when temperatures are consistently below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Exposure […]
Kidneys and Bartonellosis
The CDC estimates that 15% of US adults are affected by chronic kidney disease, with about 90% being unaware of their reduced kidney function. This is partially because the exact cause or trigger of kidney disease is often unknown. It could be a result of high blood pressure, autoimmune conditions, genetic susceptibility, infections, or other […]
Bartonella and Bones
Chronic Bartonella species infections (bartonellosis) can lead to inflammation that impacts the heart, nervous system, and more. According to case studies, these stealth pathogens can also target the bones. How can Bartonella affect a structure that is usually impervious to infection? History: From World War I to HIV/AIDS During World War I, one million soldiers […]
One Health Trio: Dr. Breitschwerdt’s Three Publications about Vector-borne Pathogens and His Family
As often happens in healthcare, specialists enter their field because of a personal experience with their specialty or because those personal experiences find them or those whom they love. The vector-borne disease researchers at Galaxy Diagnostics include people with these experiences. We are pleased to see One Health Month giving people the opportunity to tell […]
