Molecular Detection by PCR or RT-PCR

Molecular Detection by PCR or RT-PCR for avian influenza A virus.

• Influenza

Respiratory specimens (nasopharyngeal swab, throat swab, etc.).  Volume required: 1-2 mL.

Use sterile swabs and swab the nasal cavity, throat, etc.  Place swabs in 2-3 mL viral transport medium.

Keep samples refrigerated until shipped for testing.  Ship on dry ice.

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

Suspected or confirmed viral respiratory infection.

Completed requisition (current Molecular Diagnostic for Respiratory Viruses requisition form). The sender's lab name, address, and telephone number must be included for samples to be processed.  Also include identifier (sender lab number), patient date of birth, patient gender, type of specimen, and date collected.  Under additional information, please include if possible/applicable:  passage history, patient travel history, extent of influenza activity, and date of collection relative to antiviral use.

Authorization must be obtained for molecular detection by PCR or RT-PCR for Influenza virus. Please contact the Influenza, Respiratory Viruses and Coronavirus Section by phone or email before sending specimens.

Testing is performed, in whole or in part, using a lab-developed test which has not been fully validated/verified due to a lack of well-characterized panel.    

Nucleic acids are extracted from submitted respiratory specimens.  Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Reverse Transcriptase (RT) PCR with virus-specific primers is performed on extracted nucleic acids to determine the presence of viruses (using real-time detection or visual confirmation by gel electrophoresis of PCR products). 

14 calendar days.

Pathogen Safety Data Sheets: Infectious Substances – Influenza A virus subtypes H5, H7 and H9

Protocol for Microbiological Investigations of Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI)

Canadian Pandemic Influenza Preparedness: Planning Guidance for the Health Sector

Laboratory-confirmed influenza (including novel influenza subtypes)

Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) Case Definition

For health professionals: Avian influenza A(H7N9)

For health professionals: Avian influenza (H5N1)

Emerging Respiratory Pathogens

Avian influenza A (H7N9)

Avian influenza (H5N1)