Viral diagnosis in acute respiratory infections using the indirect immunofluorescence technique.

From September 1984 to February 1985 a total of three hundred and five specimens of nasopharyngeal secretion (NPS) were examined by the indirect immuno-fluorescence technique to determine the frequency of infections caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza A, influenza B and parainfluenza viruses, 1 and 3. The specimens were collected from infants and children less than 5 years of age visiting the hospital with acute respiratory infections. Standardized techniques and quality controlled reagents were used. At least one of the above viruses was detected in 70 specimens (23.0%); RSV in 50, influenza A in 7, influenza B in4, parainfluenza type 1 in 3 and parainfluenza type 3 in 6 specimens (JPMA 37: 280 , 1987).