Varicella Zoster Shell Vials

[John Brazil]

At the Virus Reference Laboratory in Dublin (Ireland), we have been
successful in developing a shell vial assay for Cytomegalovirus and
Influenza A/B viruses. We are currently developing a similar assay
for Varicella Zoster virus.
The most important component of this test is the monoclonal antibody
directed against VZV - we are looking for such an antibody that will
enable us to detect VZV before the appearance of a cytopathic effect,
say 24 - 48 hours after inoculation and spin-amplification.
Also any details regarding cell fixation procedure, availability of
monoclonal antibodies, and distributors would be of help.

John Brazil

pp Helen Dawkins