A diagnostic algorithm for detection of antibodies to influenza A viruses in dogs in Italy (2006-2008).

The article discusses a study which examined the level of exposure of Italian dogs to influenza A viruses (FLUAV) and assessed a diagnostic algorithm for detecting FLUAV exposure. From 2006 to 2008, sera were collected from dogs and were screened in a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) for antibodies. The sensitivity and specificity of cELISA were estimated at 93.98% based on a Bayesian model. Findings suggest that a highly specific approach for FLUAV diagnosis is the use of screening with a cELISA for influenza A.