phage typing

Phage typing is a laboratory technique used to identify bacteria based on their susceptibility to specific viruses called bacteriophages. Each bacteriophage can infect certain strains of bacteria but not others. By applying different phages to a bacterial sample, scientists can determine which phages successfully infect the bacteria, creating a profile or “type.” This method is particularly useful in tracking outbreaks of bacterial infections, understanding bacterial diversity, and guiding treatment options, as different bacterial strains may respond differently to antibiotics or other therapies.