Diagnosis and control of outbreaks require virus detection. Some key methods for this are:
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): highly sensitive, amplifies DNA and RNA.
Antigen Tests: Rapidly detects antigens or proteins of the virus.
Antibody Tests: Detect past infection.
Viral Culture: Cultures the virus to be studied; however, it is time-consuming.
NGS (Next Generation Sequencing): sequences the genomes and identifies unknown viruses.
Detection can be direct (detecting the virus) or indirect (assessing effects like antibodies). Early detection during or before symptoms is crucial. The World Vaccines R&D Conference promotes advances in virus detection to enhance global health efforts.