Isothermal Detection of Influenza D using RT-LAMP

Carlos Abelardo dos Santos; Jialu Li; Pauline M. van Diemen; Andrew McMahon; Benjamin C. Mollett; Andrew M. Ramsay; Meshach Maina; Joe James; Helen Everett; Janet Mary Daly; Nicole C. Robb

doi:10.64898/2026.01.09.698603

MicrobiologybioRxivJan 9, 2026

Preprint

Isothermal Detection of Influenza D using RT-LAMP

Carlos Abelardo dos Santos, Jialu Li, Pauline M. van Diemen iD, Andrew McMahon iD, Benjamin C. Mollett iD, Andrew M. Ramsay iD, Meshach Maina iD, Joe James iD, Helen Everett iD, Janet Mary Daly iD, Nicole C. Robb iD

Abstract

The Orthomyxoviridae family includes influenza D virus (IDV), an emerging pathogen primarily affecting cattle and swine, with evidence of cross-species transmission and potential zoonotic risk. Although active human infections have yet to been confirmed, high seroprevalence in cattle-exposed populations highlights the need for continued surveillance. Here, a rapid, field-deployable RT-LAMP assay for IDV detection was developed and validated, with 99.2% specificity and sensitivity ranging from 95.6% (Cq < 30) to 81.8% (Cq < 40). This method offers a cost-effective, accessible alternative to RT-qPCR, enabling improved monitoring of IDV, and reinforcing preparedness for emerging influenza threats.

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