Influenza Virus Isolation and Identification

Influenza viruses are sent to participating laboratories to ascertain their ability to isolate and identify strains of influenza.  The influenza viruses that are used each year are representatives of the WHO recommended flu vaccine strains (H3N2, H1N1, and B). 

Isolation, detection, or subtyping of seasonal influenza A and B

None

Provincial public health laboratories that routinely test for influenza by methods other than PCR.

Participating laboratories are assigned a numerical code known only to that laboratory and NML.  Cumulative results summaries display results by numerical codes only.  Participant contact information is not shared with other participants.

Contact Dr. Nathalie Bastien (nathalie.bastien@ phac-aspc.gc.ca) at the NML Influenza, Respiratory Viruses and Coronavirus Section.