Establishment of a UK National Influenza H5 Laboratory Network.

摘要: Avian (H5N1) influenza continues to pose a significant threat human health, although it remains zoonotic infection. Sensitive and robust surveillance measures are required detect any evidence that the virus has acquired ability transmit between humans emerge as next pandemic strain. An integral part of planning response in UK was creation 2005 National H5 Laboratory Network, capable rapidly accurately identifying potential H5N1 infections all regions UK, Republic Ireland. This review details challenges designing molecular detection methods for evolving present, strategic decisions choices ensure successful establishment functional national laboratory network, providing round clock testing H5N1. partnerships have delivered improved real-time one-step multiplex PCR methodologies streamlined not only detecting but also differential diagnosis seasonal A/B. A range fully validated confirmatory assays been developed run parallel with universal first-screening assay. Regular proficiency panels together weekly runs, intermittent on-call suspect cases avian flu returning travellers, several outbreaks poultry occurred since tested network current diagnostic strategies influenza. The clearly demonstrated its capability delivering confirmed within 3-4 h receipt sample, an essential prerequisite administration appropriate antiviral therapy, effective clinical management, disease containment implementation infection control measures. is important means enhancing building capacity newly emerging influenza, preparedness.