Which diagnostic tests can be used to diagnose Hendra virus?

Study for the USDA NVAP Global Health Test. Get ready for your exam with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Enhance your veterinary knowledge and prepare confidently!

The correct choice for diagnosing Hendra virus is based on the understanding that PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and serology are both effective techniques used to identify the presence of the virus and the immune response to it.

PCR is a molecular technique that detects the genetic material of the Hendra virus in a patient's sample, allowing for direct identification of the virus early in the infection process. This rapid detection is crucial for early intervention and management of the disease.

Serology tests are used to detect antibodies against the Hendra virus, indicating whether the individual has been exposed to the virus. This helps in assessing past infections and the immune response, which is particularly useful in outbreak scenarios where identifying previously infected individuals is necessary.

The other options, while useful for different medical diagnoses, are not appropriate for identifying Hendra virus. Culture and sensitivity testing is more suited for bacterial infections, and radiology as well as ultrasonography are imaging techniques typically used for assessing structural problems within the body but do not have a role in diagnosing viral infections directly. Blood glucose monitoring is relevant for diabetes management and does not relate to viral diagnostics. Thus, the combination of PCR and serology is the most relevant and accurate method for diagnosing Hendra virus.

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