Detection of a novel avian influenza A (H7N9) virus in humans by multiplex one-step real-time RT-PCR assay.

ABSTRACT:

Background

A novel avian influenza A (H7N9) virus emerged in eastern China in February 2013. 413 confirmed human cases, including 157 deaths, have been recorded as of July 31, 2014.

Methods

Clinical specimens, including throat swabs, sputum or tracheal aspirates, etc., were obtained from patients exhibiting influenza-like illness (ILIs), especially from those having pneumonia and a history of occupational exposure to poultry and wild birds. RNA was extracted from these samples and a multiplex one-step real-time RT-PCR assay was developed to specifically detect the influenza A virus (FluA). PCR primers targeted the conserved M and Rnase P (RP) genes, as well as the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase genes of the H7N9 virus.

Results

The multiplex assay specifically detecte

SUBMITTER: Fan J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4286936 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature