Methods of Detecting and Identifying Both Known and Novel Influenza Viruses

This invention describes materials and methods of detecting novel influenza virus in a sample. As highlighted by the recent H1N1 pandemic strain, influenza viruses are constantly evolving and novel reassortments can quickly spread around the world.

The reagents and methods of this particular technology are capable of detecting any type of influenza virus (such as influenza A virus, influenza B virus, and influenza C virus) in a sample, including novel or previously unknown influenza viruses. Such methods and compositions are useful for diagnosing influenza virus infection in humans and animals.