Seasonal influenza is responsible for approximately 200,000 hospitalizations and thousands of deaths annually in the United States.  In addition to seasonal influenza, other viruses which circulate as well as the emergence of a novel influenza virus are of concern.  The emergence of a novel influenza virus possesses the potential for significant impacts on schools, businesses, and healthcare facilities.  Responding to these concerns requires strong partnerships between public health, healthcare, and community organizations.

Tarrant County Public Health has developed a respiratory virus surveillance initiative with enhanced laboratory technology which emphasizes the year-round detection of influenza and other significant sources of respiratory disease.  Specimens collected by this surveillance program are tested for:

    ·    Influenza A H1, A H3, and B                ·    Adenovirus

    ·    Respiratory Syncytial virus (RSV)         ·    Human Metapneumovirus

    ·    Parainfluenza (types 1, 2, and 3)         ·    Rhinovirus