Influenza Viruses

Abstract

The influenza viruses are members of the family Orthomyxoviridae . The transmission of influenza viruses to people from avian and swine species highlights the need for vigilant surveillance for such events. Antigen detection assays are used in a variety of formats to rapidly detect influenza viruses in clinical specimens and to confirm the identity of isolates grown in culture. Influenza viruses have been detected in clinical specimens by direct and indirect visualization of their typical morphological appearance by electron microscopy. Influenza virus isolation procedures should be performed under biosafety level 2 conditions. Influenza virus infections are also identified by serologic methods. The pandemic strain may develop because of genetic reassortment following coinfection of a susceptible host with human and animal influenza viruses or through gradual adaptation of an avian strain to mammalian hosts.