Testing for H1N1 Flu or H5N1 Flu in Humans

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Overview

Tests for flu in humans that can quickly and accurately diagnosis new flu strains can be an important tool to reduce human exposure to emerging influenza viruses. Such tests represent major steps toward protecting the public from the threat of pandemic flu.

Speedy and accurate diagnosis for the new H1N1 flu (swine flu) in humans is essential to early treatment. The Food and Drug Administration has authorized emergency use of a rapid test for swine flu in humans.

In 2009, a rapid test for the H5N1 flu (avian flu) in humans was cleared by the Food and Drug Administration.

H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has developed a diagnostic test kit to detect the new H1N1 virus and has distributed test kits to all states in the U.S. and the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The test kits are being shipped internationally as well. This will allow states and other countries to test for this new virus.

• FDA: Fact Sheet for Patients: Understanding Swine Flu Kit Test Results
• CDC: Use of Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests for Patients with Influenza-like Illness during the Novel H1N1 Influenza Virus (Swine Flu) Outbreak
• CDC: Guidance on Laboratory Testing
• FDA Authorizes Emergency Use of Influenza Medicines, Diagnostic Test in Response to Swine Flu Outbreak in Humans

H5N1 Flu (Avian Flu)

FDA Clears Rapid Test for Avian Influenza A Virus in Humans (Food and Drug Administration)
The test, called AVantage A/H5N1 Flu Test, detects influenza A/H5N1 in throat or nose swabs collected from patients who have flu-like symptoms. The test identifies in less than 40 minutes a specific protein (NS1) that indicates the presence of the influenza A/H5N1 virus subtype.

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