On 11th June, the World Health Organisation raised the alert level for Novel H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) to Phase 6, or pandemic, because of persistent person-to-person transmission in multiple continents.

Already programmes for vaccine production are underway in several countries, but over the next few months as firstly the southern hemisphere enters its influenza season, and then with the predicted surge in cases in the northern autumn and winter, there is a need for continued vigilance and surveillance of influenza virus strains. It is not yet known how stable the genotype will be, and there is the possibility of recombination with the current seasonal flu strain.¹

Various test strategies are being employed in different countries. A number of specific PCR kits are already available, and there is the continued need to submit specimens for full characterisation by cell culture. In these circumstances it is essential to use a reliable specimen collection system, such as Virocult® or Sigma -Virocult®. In fact Medical Wire has a complete range of collection devices, whether required for immediate use and transfer to a kit or system, or for transport at ambient temperatures to a distant reference laboratory.