Detection of influenza A(H1N1)v virus by real-time RT-PCR

• DOI: 10.2807/ese.14.36.19329-en
• Publication Date: 2021-03-30T10:28:50Z
• Authors: M Panning; M Eickmann; O Landt; M Monazahian; S Ölschläger; S Baumgarte; U Reischl; J J Wenzel; H H Niller; S Günther; B Hollmann; D Huzly; J F Drexler; A Helmer; S Becker; B Matz; A M Eis-Hübinger; C Drosten
• Keywords: Pandemic; H5N1 genetic structure

Influenza A(H1N1)v virus was first identified in April 2009. A novel real-time RT-PCR for influenza set up ad hoc and validated following industry-standard criteria. The lower limit of detection the assay 384 copies viral RNA per ml transport medium (95% confidence interval: 273-876 copies/ml). Specificity 100% as assessed on a panel reference samples including seasonal human H1N1 H3N2, highly pathogenic avian H5N1 porcine H1N1, H1N2 H3N2 samples. matrix gene recommended 2007 by World Health Organization modified to work under same reaction conditions virus-specific test. Both assays were equally sensitive. Clinical applicability both demonstrated screening almost 2,000 suspected (H1N1)v specimens, which included from cases pandemic imported Germany. Measuring concentrations 144 laboratory-confirmed yielded median 4.6 log copies/ml. new methodology proved its principle might assist public health laboratories upcoming pandemic.