Viral diagnosis in acute respiratory infections using the indirect immunofluorescence technique

ABSTRACT

From September 1984 to February 1985 a total of three hundred and five specimens of nasophary-ngeal secretion [NPS] were examined by the indirect immuno-fluorescence technique to determine the frequency of infections caused by the respiratory syncytial virus [RSV], influenza A, influenza B and parain-fluenza viruses, 1 and 3. The specimens were collected from infants and children less than 5 years of age visiting the hospital with acute respiratory infections. Standardized techniques and quality controlled reagents were used. At least one of the above viruses was detected in 70 specimens [23.0%]; RSV in 50, influenza A in 7, influenza B in 4, parainfluenza type 1 in 3 and parainfluenza type 3 in 6 specimens