Report of the 5th meeting of the WHO Working Group on Polymerase Chain Reaction Protocols for Detecting Subtype Influenza A Viruses

4 June 2012

| Meeting report

The reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay is a rapid and sensitive

method for detecting the genetic material of influenza viruses, and is now the first-choice

laboratory test for influenza infection in both humans and animals. Since its initial application

for detecting A(H5N1) viruses, the assay has been simplified and applied more broadly to

both routine seasonal influenza surveillance and pandemic preparedness activities. As the use

of the assay becomes ever more widespread, it is vital that its sensitivity and ability in

detecting evolving viruses is maintained, and that laboratories continue to be supported in

their efforts to comply with recommended good operating practices.

WHO Team

Global Influenza Programme (GIP)

Number of pages

WHO