Amidst growing concerns from U.S. federal, state and local agencies over Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1) detections in dairy cows, Integrated DNA Technologies today launched the Avian Influenza Type A (H5) Primers and Probe Set to enable researchers to identify, target, and trace the presence of clade 2.3.4.4b of the H5N1 virus across bird, environmental, dairy cow, and poultry farm samples. The new offering is available for online ordering through IDT’s Tech Access Program, which enables access to the most advanced research tools in development to accelerate innovation. IDT’s Avian Influenza A (H5) Primers and Probe Set is manufactured in a certified, template-free environment and includes an internal control to help confirm false negatives. An Avian Influenza Positive Sample Control is also available for purchase.

“IDT is proud to leverage its track record in viral surveillance and response to be a trusted partner for researchers looking to understand, monitor, and control the spread of Avian flu,” said Demaris Mills, President, Integrated DNA Technologies. “As one of the first to market a differentiated offering for the current clade of the H5N1 virus, we have designed a much-needed solution to aid avian influenza research, surveillance, vaccine development, and public health preparedness efforts, ultimately contributing to U.S. and worldwide initiatives focused on early detection and mitigation of future outbreaks.”

The Avian Influenza A (H5) Primers and Probe Set is compatible with IDT’s PrimeTime™ 1-Step 4X Broad-Range qPCR Master Mix. Formulated as an inhibitor resistant, high-performance master mix that allows for direct amplification of crude samples, the one-step Master Mix provides researchers with a premium option that can save time and costs associated with doing extractions from viral transport media (VTM) prior to the amplification step, helping to enrich endpoint florescence and optimize data confidence. The Master Mix features an exclusive mutant enzyme ideal for viral research.

IDT has a rich history of supporting infectious disease and viral surveillance efforts, innovating on its product portfolio with unique solutions that enable researchers and public health officials to rapidly respond, control, and develop effective measures. Last year, it launched a next generation sequencing (NGS) solution made for respiratory viruses, and a complete NGS library preparation solution for mpox the previous year. The company also played an important role in the fight against COVID-19 as the first company in the nation to be trusted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to supply critical reagents used during the pandemic.