Influenza causes over than 4 000 deaths in Canada annually, the large majority of which are attributable to type A strains[1]. While vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, antiviral drugs are the only specific medication for influenza infection. They are most effective at reducing complications when used early (within 48 h of illness onset)[2]. Management of influenza infections remains a challenge, mainly because of the difficulty in making a rapid and accurate diagnosis. Clinical diagnostic criteria lack accuracy compared with laboratory methods because influenza causes a wide spectrum of disease that is often clinically indistinguishable from other respiratory infections[3]. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.