Supervisor: Dr. I. Dohoo
Thesis Title: Evaluation of the Diagnostic Tests for the Detection of the Avian Influenza Virus Antigen
Description of Project: Avian influenza is a significant global concern. The rapid detection of the avian influenza virus (AIV) antigen in wild and domestic fowl is needed for a national emergency preparedness response to effectively contain and control the disease in avian populations. Presently, detection of the AIV antigen is done through laboratory testing. Recently, a number of ‘rapid’ AIV antigen tests have been commercially developed that have the potential to be ideal field tests. This project has been developed to evaluate the performances of five of these ‘rapid’ tests in conjunction with the most frequently used laboratory tests for AIV antigen detection.