Ehrlichiosis (E.canis) diagnostic testing update from DPIRD (WA)

History of E. canis in WA

In May 2020, following the first detection of E. canis in WA, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) undertook a surveillance program for E. canis with the aims of determining the geographical distribution of disease within and outside the Kimberley region. During the surveillance program, DPIRD Diagnostics and Laboratory Services (DDLS) provided fully subsidised initial and repeat E. canis diagnostic testing for all dogs with and without clinical signs who presented for sampling.

Surveillance has shown that E. canis is now established in northern WA, as well as in other parts of Australia. As per our previous communication in 2022, nationally, it has been agreed that E. canis cannot be eradicated from Australia.

WA has now modified how it regulates E. canis in the state.

E. canis is now regarded as an endemic disease in all regions where the intermediate host, the brown dog tick, is present. The risk of contracting E. canis needs to be managed by dog owners through the regular use of an appropriate preventative product as part of responsible pet ownership. As a result, diagnostic testing for dogs without clinical signs of E. canis will no longer qualify as being charge-exempt. However, diagnostic testing will be available in these circumstances on a fee-for-service basis. As E.canis remains a reportable disease in WA, reporting suspicion of the disease remains a requirement. Diagnostic testing for dogs with clinical signs will continue to be funded by DPIRD. The submitting veterinarian must complete the E. canis laboratory submission form in full for testing to be carried out. The form must clearly state that the dog has clinical signs, and the full details of clinical signs must be provided. Failure to provide details may result in the case incurring a fee for service. The submitter is expected to pay freight and invoice the client for any expenses incurred.

Fee-for-service diagnostic testing will be available through DDLS and Vetpath Laboratory Services. An indication of associated fees can be provided by contacting Jade.Laine@dpird.wa.gov.au.

Awareness program

DPIRD, in collaboration with a nationally coordinated awareness program, will continue to raise awareness about E. canis, its causes, diagnosis, prevention and treatment. See the DPIRD E. canis webpage for the most recent information.

Further information is available by emailing animalbiosecurity@dpird.wa.gov.au.

AVA resources for E.canis are also available here.