The process of viral culture involves several steps: 1. Sample Collection: Samples can be collected from various sites, including the throat, nose, blood, urine, or cerebrospinal fluid, depending on the suspected infection. 2. Transport and Storage: The sample must be transported to the laboratory promptly and stored at appropriate temperatures to preserve the viability of the virus. 3. Inoculation: The sample is inoculated onto cell cultures that support viral growth. 4. Incubation: The inoculated cultures are incubated under controlled conditions. 5. Observation: The cultures are observed for cytopathic effects (CPE) that indicate viral growth. 6. Identification: Once CPE is observed, further tests such as immunofluorescence, PCR, or electron microscopy may be performed to identify the specific virus.
