Longitudinal study of influenza molecular viral shedding in Hutterite communities.

Background: The nature of influenza viral shedding during naturally acquired infection is not well understood.

Methods: A cohort study was conducted in Hutterite colonies in Alberta, Canada. Flocked nasal swabs were collected during 3 influenza seasons (2007-2008 to 2009-2010) from both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals infected with influenza.