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Completing the molecular investigation into the HIV outbreak at Glenochil prison
D L Yirrell1, S J Hutchinson, M Griffin
1Centre for HIV Research, University of Edinburgh, UK.
Abstract:
In a molecular investigation into the outbreak of HIV in Glenochil during the first 6 months of 1993, we previously demonstrated that 13 out of the 14 HIV positive inmates were infected with a virtually identical strain, and discounted 2 others as potential sources. Here we investigate a further 8 potential contacts and 4 potential sources which were identified in the companion paper. We were able to examine viral sequence from all but one of these 12 and results have revealed them to be distinct both from each other and the original 14. Thus, despite an intensive follow-up investigation, we have been unable to identify any further HIV infections that might have been part of the 1993 outbreak. It is possible that persons who were infected at that time remain undetected; however this and the companion report strongly suggest that if this were the case the likely numbers would be few.
Insights
This study investigated potential human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections linked to a 1993 outbreak. Molecular analysis found no new cases among contacts or potential sources, suggesting limited further spread.
Area of Science:
- Molecular epidemiology
- Virology
- Public health
Background:
- A 1993 HIV outbreak in Glenochil involved 13 inmates infected with a similar viral strain.
- Previous investigations identified 14 HIV-positive inmates and excluded two as sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate 8 potential contacts and 4 potential sources of HIV infection identified in a companion study.
- To determine if additional HIV infections were part of the 1993 Glenochil outbreak through molecular analysis.
Main Methods:
- Viral sequence analysis was performed on 11 out of 12 individuals (8 contacts, 4 sources).
- Sequences were compared to each other and to the viral strains from the original 14 infected inmates.
Main Results:
- Viral sequences from the 11 investigated individuals were distinct from each other and from the original outbreak strain.
- No new HIV infections linked to the 1993 outbreak were identified among the investigated contacts and sources.
Conclusions:
- Despite extensive follow-up, no further HIV infections associated with the 1993 Glenochil outbreak were confirmed.
- The findings suggest that any additional undetected infections from that time are likely few in number.