There is a variety of methods available for the rapid detection and identification of viruses by electron microscopy as described in several reviews. The predominant techniques are classified as direct electron microscopy (DEM), immune electron microscopy (IEM), liquid phase immune electron microscopy (LPIEM) and solid phase immune electron microscopy (SPIEM). Each technique has inherent strengths and weaknesses. However, in recent years, the most progress for identifying viruses has been realized by the utilization of SPIEM.