Infectious virus present in patient blood sample is amplified by culturing virus on cells of human, insect or animal origin.

Cells may be primary or continuous lines. They may be adherent or in suspension.

Cells are cultured in a plastic flask, in appropriate cell culture media.

Potentially infectious blood (or other body fluid or tissue) is added to cells, cell culture is maintained at appropriate temperature and atmosphere.

Virus is identified by various methods, including cytopathic effect; PCR; antigen detection.

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