'Accurate' test for swine flu developed

A new test for swine flue has been developed that claims to be more accurate than previous versions.

The method is easy to perform and can detect both seasonal influenza and the H1N1 swine flu in humans.

In the journal Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, researchers have revealed that a new molecular probe strategy could prove effective at detecting the diseases.

Laetitia Ninove and colleagues from Universite de la Mediterranee and Institut de Recherche pour le Developpement in France, CEH Oxford in the UK and EHESP School of Public Health in France carried out the study.

Stephen Higgs, editor-in-chief of the journal, said: "Early recognition of new influenza strains is vitally important for implementing effective control measures to limit spread.

"This cost-effective, comprehensive, and rapid test is a highly significant contribution to diagnostics that will greatly enhance our capacity to deal with future influenza outbreaks."

The US, Mexico and Canada are the countries most badly affected by swine flu.

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