Researchers have developed a compact, cost-effective sensor capable of detecting H5N1 bird flu in the air, potentially preventing outbreaks before they spread. The device, created by a team led by Rajan Chakrabarty, utilizes electrochemical capacitive biosensor (ECB) technology, which was previously used to detect SARS-CoV-2.

How it works

The sensor features a network of Prussian blue nanocrystals and graphene oxide on a screen-printed carbon electrode. Specialized probes—aptamers or antibodies—target H5N1 particles, altering the sensor’s capacitance when the virus is present. A custom-built air sampler collects airborne droplets and converts them into a liquid sample for analysis.

Rapid and precise detection

In lab tests, the device detected inactivated H5N1 particles in just five minutes, with a sensitivity of 93 viral copies per 35 cubic feet of air—below the infectious threshold. Compared to digital PCR, the sensor demonstrated over 90% accuracy.

This advancement could revolutionize real-time airborne virus monitoring, helping safeguard both animals and humans from avian influenza.