Subregional training on the use of real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique for diagnosis and detection of influenza H7N9 was held in February and March 2014. The training aimed at strengthening virology laboratory diagnostic capacity of using RT-PCR for influenza H7N9 virus diagnosis and detection, discuss possible causes of false results and promote good laboratory practice and laboratory safety issues. The training focused on:
- influenza H7N9 virus diagnosis using molecular methods;
- molecular diagnostic laboratory design and good laboratory practice;
- troubleshooting of influenza H7N9 virus RT- PCR testing and interpretation of the results; and
- biosafety and laboratory safety issues related to influenza H7N9 virus.
Related links
Real-time RT-PCR Protocol for the detection of avian influenza A(H7N9) virus