Northfield, Ill. (June 12, 2025)—The first national proficiency testing program to help laboratories detect and accurately identify the H5N1 strain of bird flu will be delivered this fall, according to the College of American Pathologists (CAP), developer of the program.
The H5N1 Influenza A Detection and Subtyping Program is available to labs in November. The program lets laboratories test their ability to accurately detect and distinguish H5N1 from seasonal flu strains. The CAP is the first proficiency testing and external quality assessment (PT/EQA) provider to offer a program focused specifically on H5N1 subtyping.
“Timely and accurate identification of H5N1 is critical for monitoring potential outbreaks and protecting public health,” said Donald S. Karcher, MD, FCAP, CAP President. “With this new program, laboratories can ensure they are prepared to distinguish H5N1 from seasonal influenza strains with confidence.”
The program includes two laboratory-created samples that simulate real patient specimens, allowing labs to verify their detection and subtyping processes under realistic conditions.
Recent infections in poultry, cattle, and the people who handle them have heightened concerns about the virus’s potential to spread more widely. By supporting laboratory readiness, the CAP’s new program strengthens broader public health efforts to monitor and contain emerging infectious diseases.
Due to export restrictions, the program is available only to U.S.-based laboratories. Laboratories should place orders by July 9 to participate this year.
To join the program, visit the website.
Talk to an expert: Donald S. Karcher, MD, FCAP, is ready to discuss the impact of H5N1 and the role of labs in outbreak response. For interviews, contact media@cap.org.
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About the College of American Pathologists
As the world’s largest organization of board-certified pathologists and leading provider of laboratory accreditation and proficiency testing programs, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) serves patients, pathologists, and the public by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. For more information, visit the CAP Newsroom, CAP.org and yourpathologist.org to watch pathologists at work and see the stories of the patients who trust them with their care.