What diagnostic test is most commonly used to confirm the presence of Senecavirus?

RT-PCR, or Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction, is the most commonly used diagnostic test to confirm the presence of Senecavirus. This test is particularly effective because it allows for the detection of viral RNA, which is crucial in identifying the virus at an early stage of infection. The sensitivity and specificity of RT-PCR make it an excellent choice for confirming infections, as it can amplify small amounts of viral genetic material, making it possible to detect the virus even when present in low quantities.

In contrast, other options such as ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) and serology focus on detecting antibodies or proteins, which may not indicate an active infection as reliably as RT-PCR. Clinical observation can provide insights into the health status of an individual or population but lacks the specificity and sensitivity required for definitive diagnosis of viral infections like Senecavirus. Thus, the molecular approach of RT-PCR positions it as the preferred method for confirmation of the virus.