Veterinarian Presented Blood Sample from 1 Animal Instead of 91 for Diagnosis

On October 23, 2019, a blood sample of 95 specimens submitted by veterinarian Edik Tamamyan from Haghartsin community in Dilijan underwent preliminary laboratory investigations at the Ijevan regional laboratory of the Tavush regional structure of the State Service for Food Safety. The diagnosis of brucellosis returned positive results for 91 samples, according to the information and public relations department of the food safety regulatory body.

The continuous occurrence of positive reactions and such a large quantity raised suspicions among the laboratory staff, who promptly notified the specialists at the Tavush regional center of the National Food Safety Service.

To clarify the circumstances of the suspicious results, veterinarian Edik Tamrazian was invited to the regional center, where he confirmed, following clarification efforts, that he had submitted blood from 1 animal as if it had been taken from 91 animals belonging to 8 livestock owners in the community.

This uncovering of the case and the operational collaboration between the laboratory and regulatory body once again demonstrates the importance of system integrity and the need for structured cooperation to achieve desired results. The issue has been discussed with the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia. The regulatory body will also contact the Prosecutor General’s Office to present the details of the case, necessary documents, and the written explanation provided by the veterinarian.