The identification and characterization of influenza is critical for both patient diagnosis and care as well as population-level monitoring and control. Yet influenza viruses are far from predictable. Each season brings new variants, updated vaccines, and an evolving case burden, requiring clinical labs to stay agile in their testing capabilities.
Traditional testing methods, like viral culture and lateral flow assays, can fall short in terms of turnaround time and sensitivity, respectively. Molecular techniques have become the new gold standard for influenza diagnostics, offering high sensitivity and throughput. But, as strain diversity increases and new subtypes emerge, the scope and design of these assays must continue to evolve.
This resource dives into influenza virology, the evolution of diagnostic methods, and the public health implications of influenza testing. It provides lab professionals with the insights needed to refine testing protocols, interpret results in a broader epidemiological context, and strengthen their contributions to ongoing surveillance efforts.
Download this whitepaper to explore:
How influenza virology informs testing strategies and public health decisions
The strengths and limitations of influenza diagnostic methodologies
The role of clinical labs in supporting surveillance and vaccine development
Challenges in detecting atypical strains like H5N1 and the new guidelines for enhanced H5 testing
