| Document and Entity Information | Apr. 30, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | MERIDIAN BIOSCIENCE INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000794172 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 30, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | OH |
| Entity File Number | 0-14902 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 31-0888197 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3471 River Hills Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Cincinnati |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OH |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 45244 |
| City Area Code | (513) |
| Local Phone Number | 271-3700 |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | VIVO |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
