Dual infection with influenza A and B viruses

A throat swab from a 7-year-old child with a mild influenza-like illness was cultured for respiratory viruses by standard and rapid plate culture methods. Standard culture yielded influenza B, whereas influenza A was obtained from rapid plate culture. Testing of the original sample by PCR confirmed the presence of both viruses. A surveillance program (Viral Watch) for respiratory viruses showed cocirculation of both these viruses in the community during this period.