Influenza virus infection of birds, humans and other animals is a major public health problem worldwide. Influenza viruses are classified as either type A, B or C based on differences in their nucleoproteins and matrix proteins. The type A viruses are the most virulent human pathogens among the three influenza types and cause the most severe disease and epidemics. The different types can be further classified into subtypes based on antigenic differences in two surface glycoproteins; hemagglutinin and neuroamidase. All known subtypes of influenza A can be found in birds (H1-H16, N1-N9), while a limited number of the subtypes have been found in humans (H1-H3, N1 and N2). However, over the past few years, various subtypes of Influenza A viruses, including H5N1, have been reported to infect humans (WHO, 2006). In addition, the coexistence of human influenza viruses and avian influenza viruses may provide an opportunity for genetic material to be exchanged between these viruses. This could potentially create a new virulent influenza strain that is easily transmissible and lethal to humans (Food Safety Research Information Office, 2006). Thus, there is the need for sensitive diagnostic tests to allow for the rapid and early detection of these H5 influenza virus infections, to help reduce the risk of epidemics or pandemics in both animals and humans.

For research use only and NOT intended for in vitro diagnostics.