EU diagnostic manual for avian influenza

The EU Directive 2005/94/EC on 'Community measures for the control of Avian Influenza' (Official Journal of the European Communities L Series vol 48 L10 p16-65) refers to a diagnostic manual.

In order to ensure uniform procedures for the diagnosis of avian influenza (AI) in the Community, this diagnostic manual sets out:

  • guidelines and minimum requirements for diagnostic procedures, sampling methods and criteria for the evaluation of the results of laboratory tests for a proper diagnosis of AI.
  • the laboratory tests to be used for the diagnosis of AI and the laboratory techniques to be used for the genetic typing of AI virus isolates.
  • minimum bio-safety requirements and quality standards to be observed by the diagnostic laboratories and for the transport of samples.

The manual is subject to annual review and revision as required.