Target audience

The course is specifically designed for poultry health and industry professionals including vets and laboratory staff responsible for implementing diagnostic techniques to detect Marek’s disease virus (MDV). The course can also be useful to anyone with a general interest in learning about the pathogenicity, clinical disease, epidemiology, and control of the virus.

Requirements and qualifications

Access to a computer with a reliable internet connection is essential. The course is prepared in English (UK).

Course details

  • 2-hour course
  • £75 ex VAT
  • Internet required
  • Self-directed
  • Email us

Course description

This eLearning course, designed in collaboration with subject matter experts in the MDV WOAH reference laboratory at Pirbright, is intended to broaden participants’ understanding of MD, and the virus which causes it. The course specifically focuses on information that would be useful for vets or laboratory staff undertaking laboratory diagnostic testing for MDV.

Learning outcomes

Divided into six individual modules, you will be able to:

  • Discuss the history, impact, structure, and stability of MDV.
  • Describe the pathogenesis and spread of MDV including sources of infection, replication, and immunity.
  • Recognise the clinical signs of the different clinical forms of MD and compare with other diseases for differential diagnoses.
  • Explain laboratory diagnostics including molecular, virological, and serological techniques as well as the pathological and histopathological changes.
  • Discuss control and risk mitigation strategies including biosecurity, genetic resistance, and vaccination.
  • Outline methods for sample dispatch and receipt.

Course modules

The course comprises the following modules:

 Module Title Duration (minutes) No of questions 
1,Introductory module                                      3016
2.Pathogenesis and spread of MDV              157
3.Clinical diagnosis of MD                                 158
4.Introduction to laboratory diagnosis        20         9
5.Disease control                                                 20         8
6.Sample dispatch and receipt                       157

A certificate will be awarded to individuals successfully completing all modules of the course.

Next steps

Contact Pirbright Training for portal access details.

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