|
|
Article: Scared of trichinosis? Check with ELISA. (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay)
- Article from:
- Science News
- Article date:
- August 9, 1986
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 1986 Science Service, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
Scared of trichinosis? Check with ELISA
According to the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, trichinosis is still a public health hazard. Between 1983 and 1985, at least 152 people in the United States contracted the disease; one died. But a quick blood test, just approved for commercial use, can identify which pigs contain the parasitic trichina worm. For states that choose, as Illinois has just started this year, to control trichinosis by culling contaminated animals prior to slaughter, it identifies infected pigs. Ultimately, it is envisioned as a screening test for use by slaughterhouse inspectors. The meat of animals whose blood passed the test could ...